Puerto Leguízamo-Caucayá Troop Transfer Crash (FAC1016)

Incident Overview and Casualties The aircraft departed Puerto Leguízamo-Caucayá (La Tagua) Airport on a troop transfer to Puerto Asís. The flight carried 117 soldiers from three platoons and 11 crew members. Shortly after takeoff from runway 10, while in initial climb, the aircraft encountered engine problems. It rolled slightly to the left, descended to the ground, and crashed in a wooded area located 3 km northwest of the city, bursting into flames. 57 people were rescued, and 69 others were killed. The fatalities included 61 soldiers, six crew members, and two police officers. ## Operational Context The source describes the operation as a troop transfer involving personnel from three platoons. The accident occurred during the initial climb phase after departure from runway 10. The crash site was a wooded area 3 km northwest of the city. The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, or the definitive cause of the accident.