Quito- An Ecuadorian Air Force helicopter crashed Tuesday as it flew near Quito air base during celebrations to mark the 89th anniversary of the service, Ecuadorian media reported. Two Air Force officers were on board, but they reportedly managed to leave the aircraft by themselves after the crash before being taken to Quito's Military Hospital.
The helicopter, an Indian-made Dhruv, had been bought this year.
According to media reports, three helicopters were flying around the base at the time of the accident.
The troubled aircraft apparently swung 90 degrees and was unable to regain its position. That reportedly caused the crash onto the runway.
Ecuadorian Vice President Lenin Moreno, among other personalities, was attending the show.
The authorities launched a probe into the causes of the crash.
