Over 15 dead as Bolivian military plane carrying banknotes crashes onto highway

At least 15 people were killed after a Bolivian Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft carrying newly printed banknotes crashed near the capital La Paz on Friday. The military cargo plane veered off the runway at El Alto International Airport before crashing onto a busy avenue and nearby field, damaging multiple vehicles and scattering currency at the scene. Authorities temporarily suspended all flights to and from the terminal following the incident.

Fire chief Pavel Tovar said at least 15 people died but did not clarify whether the victims were on board the aircraft or in vehicles struck during the crash. Local police officials later indicated the toll could be higher, with injuries also reported. At least 15 vehicles were said to have been damaged when the aircraft ploughed into the roadway.

Defense Minister Marcelo Salinas stated that the aircraft was transporting newly printed Bolivian currency from Santa Cruz when it “landed and veered off the runway.” Firefighters extinguished flames that engulfed the aircraft after impact. Two of the six crew members were initially reported missing, according to Air Force officials.

Images circulating from the scene showed debris strewn across the road, destroyed cars, and banknotes scattered on the ground. Police in riot gear were deployed to disperse bystanders who attempted to collect the spilled currency.

The Central Bank later clarified that the transported banknotes had not yet entered circulation and lacked serial numbers, meaning they did not hold legal tender status. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash as recovery and identification efforts continue.