At least 15 people were killed and 30 others injured after a Bolivian Air Force Hercules aircraft crashed on Friday in El Alto, a city adjacent to Bolivia’s administrative capital, La Paz, according to local media reports.
The military aircraft had departed from Santa Cruz before the accident occurred during landing. Authorities said the plane skidded off the runway and veered onto a neighboring avenue amid inclement weather conditions.
Aircraft Was Carrying New Banknotes
Officials confirmed that the aircraft was transporting newly printed banknotes from Bolivia’s central bank at the time of the crash. The plane reportedly overshot the runway and struck a busy roadway, causing damage to multiple vehicles in the vicinity.
The incident took place near El Alto International Airport, prompting the temporary suspension of airport operations.
Airport Temporarily Closed
Following the crash, the national carrier Boliviana de Aviacion announced that flights were temporarily halted as emergency services responded to the scene. The airline clarified that the aircraft involved did not belong to its fleet.
El Alto is located near La Paz, one of the world’s highest capital cities, where challenging weather and altitude conditions can complicate flight operations.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest adverse weather may have contributed to the aircraft losing control during landing.
Emergency responders rushed injured passengers and civilians to nearby hospitals, while security forces cordoned off the crash site.
Further details are awaited as officials continue rescue and recovery operations.
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Bolivian Air Force, El Alto plane crash, La Paz news, Bolivia aviation accident, Hercules aircraft crash, El Alto International Airport, Boliviana de Aviacion, World News, Aviation
