LATACUNGA, ECUADOR — A Lockheed C-130H Hercules military transport aircraft operated by the Ecuadorian Air Force (Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana – FAE) veered off the taxiway and came to rest in a ditch at Latacunga-Cotopaxi International Airport earlier today. The incident has drawn attention due to the nature of the aircraft involved and the preliminary reports suggesting a technical malfunction as the root cause.
According to early information released by authorities and sources close to the investigation, the C-130H Hercules experienced a failure in its hydraulic system shortly after landing. This critical malfunction reportedly impaired the braking system, rendering the crew unable to bring the aircraft to a controlled stop as it taxied along the designated path. As a result, the plane continued moving off course until it left the paved taxiway surface and became embedded in a ditch adjacent to the runway.
Airport officials and emergency services responded swiftly to the unfolding situation. Latacunga-Cotopaxi International Airport, which also serves as a key military and cargo hub in the central Andean region, immediately activated its emergency response protocols. Emergency personnel arrived on scene within minutes, securing the area and ensuring that there were no injuries among the flight crew or airport staff.
While the full extent of the damage to the aircraft is still being assessed, no injuries or fatalities have been reported. Visuals from the scene show the aircraft resting with its landing gear partially sunken into the soft terrain of the ditch. Aerial photos circulating online also appear to confirm the aircraft’s disabled position at the edge of the taxiway, with emergency crews in proximity.
In a brief preliminary statement, airport authorities confirmed the incident and assured the public that operations at Latacunga Airport remained unaffected for civilian flights, though some logistical delays could be expected as recovery operations are underway.
The Ecuadorian Air Force is expected to release a comprehensive statement in the coming hours. In their early comments, officials indicated that an internal investigation has been launched to determine the precise mechanical failure and whether it stems from a lapse in maintenance, a systems defect, or operational error. As part of the investigation, the aircraft’s flight data and maintenance logs will be reviewed in detail.
The Lockheed C-130H Hercules is a four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft that has served as a backbone of many air forces around the world due to its versatility and reliability. In Ecuador, the aircraft plays a vital role in humanitarian missions, cargo transport, and military logistics—particularly in a country with such diverse geography and often remote regions.
This incident marks a rare but serious occurrence for the Ecuadorian Air Force, and officials have pledged transparency and diligence in their investigation. Aviation analysts note that while hydraulic failures are uncommon, they can have significant consequences if not mitigated promptly, especially during critical phases such as taxiing and landing.
Further updates are expected from the Ecuadorian Air Force, including details on the recovery of the aircraft, the safety review protocols being enforced, and any implications this event may have on ongoing military flight operations.
As of now, airport operations continue under normal conditions, and the public is advised to await official communications for verified updates on the investigation.
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