Deadly Bolivian Military Plane Crash Near La Paz Sparks Cash Chaos, Bank Panic

A Bolivian Air Force C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft crashed near El Alto International Airport, close to La Paz, on February 27, 2026, in a disaster that has grown in scale and consequence. The plane, carrying 18 tons of freshly printed banknotes—equivalent to 53 million euros—for the Central Bank of Bolivia, crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in a mounting death toll, widespread property damage, and a national crisis. The tragedy has now claimed 24 lives, with dozens injured, and has triggered not only chaos at the crash site but also a rush on banks and deepening public mistrust following the theft and subsequent invalidation of a significant portion of the currency. Mainichi Shimbun+2

🚨 Crash Details and Rising Casualties

The C-130 Hercules went down near El Alto airport, striking vehicles and causing extensive destruction. Initial reports cited 22 deaths, but the official fatality count rose to 24 by March 3, 2026, making it one of Bolivia’s deadliest military aviation disasters in recent years. The crash site was chaotic, with emergency services contending with both rescue operations and the influx of people drawn by the scattered cash. The incident has intensified scrutiny of military aviation safety and emergency preparedness in Bolivia. Mainichi Shimbun+2

💸 Banknote Scattering, Looting, and Aftermath

The crash scattered 18 tons of new banknotes across the area, prompting hundreds to rush in and collect the cash, which severely hampered rescue efforts. Authorities estimate that 30% of the cash—about 16 million euros—was stolen before police could secure the site. In response, the Central Bank of Bolivia canceled part of the affected banknote series, causing confusion and mistrust among the public. The looting and subsequent invalidation of currency led to a rush on banks as citizens sought to exchange or deposit potentially compromised notes. Chosun Ilbo+1

🕵️‍♂️ Investigation, Official Responses, and International Sympathy

Bolivian authorities, including the Ministry of Defense and Central Bank, are conducting a thorough investigation into the crash’s cause, considering factors from weather to operational protocols. The Chinese Foreign Ministry publicly expressed condolences to the victims’ families and the injured, reflecting the international attention the disaster has drawn. Forensic teams continue to work at the site, and the airport remains under heightened security. Huanqiu+2

🏥 Rescue, Recovery, and Public Reaction

Rescue teams and military personnel have been deployed for recovery and victim identification, while the nation mourns the loss. The Central Bank’s decision to cancel part of the banknote series has fueled public anxiety, with many expressing frustration over the confusion and financial disruption. The tragedy has highlighted vulnerabilities in Bolivia’s emergency response and the broader economic impact of such disasters. Chosun Ilbo+1