At least 15 dead after Bolivian Air Force plane crashes during severe weather over El Alto
A Bolivian Air Force Lockheed C-130 Hercules transport aircraft crashed while landing at El Alto International Airport on February 27, 2026, killing at least 15 people and injuring 28. Authorities said the plane overran the runway during intense hail and lightning activity that severely reduced visibility over the high-altitude airport.
Firefighters work around the wreckage of a Bolivian Air Force Lockheed C-130 Hercules that overran the runway and crashed near El Alto International Airport, Bolivia, on February 27, 2026, during severe hail and lightning conditions. Image digitally enhanced (deblurred and noise-reduced) for clarity. Credit: Circulating video still, original author unknown
Bolivia’s General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC) confirmed that a Bolivian Air Force Lockheed C-130 Hercules transport aircraft overran the runway while landing at El Alto International Airport at approximately 18:15 LT (22:15 UTC) on February 27.
The plane slid beyond the runway end and crashed onto Avenida 6 de Marzo, striking multiple vehicles and causing a fire. Fifteen people were confirmed dead, and about 28 were injured on board and on the ground, according to initial figures released by civil defense officials.
The airport was under intense convective activity at the time of the accident, with radar and surface observations showing a strong storm cell producing hail and lightning directly over El Alto, according to MetSul Meteorologia.
El Alto International Airport serves both civilian and military traffic and is one of the highest commercial airports in the world, at an elevation of 4 061 m (13 323 feet). Its high-altitude conditions require longer take-off and landing rolls because of lower air density.
Aviation analysts note that hail or standing ice on the runway at such altitudes can significantly affect braking performance and control during the landing phase.
The aircraft was transporting newly printed banknotes for the Central Bank of Bolivia. After the impact, scattered banknotes and burning debris complicated emergency operations as first responders attempted to secure the site. Police and fire units used water hoses and cordons to contain crowds that gathered along the avenue.
DGAC officials described the accident as a “runway excursion on landing.” Preliminary findings indicate no mid-air failure prior to touchdown.
An investigative board composed of DGAC and Bolivian Air Force safety inspectors has been activated to collect flight data and analyze meteorological influences.
El Alto airport operations were temporarily suspended and resumed later in the day after debris clearance.
February marks the peak of the Andean wet season with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and hail events. The combination of convective weather, thin-air conditions, and the airport’s urban proximity creates heightened operational risk for large aircraft.
References:
1 Grave acidente aéreo na Bolívia sob condições de mau tempo – MetSul Meteorologia – February 27, 2026
2 Bolivian military plane crash death toll rises to 20, AFP reports – Reuters – February 28, 2026
I'm a dedicated researcher, journalist, and editor at The Watchers. With over 20 years of experience in the media industry, I specialize in hard science news, focusing on extreme weather, seismic and volcanic activity, space weather, and astronomy, including near-Earth objects and planetary defense strategies. You can reach me at teo /at/ watchers.news.
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules.