Ecuador air force Dhruv helicopter crashes during parade

Quito, Equador: An Indian-manufactured Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter crashed during a military parade injuring its two pilots and prompting the grounding of another six. All the helicopters were delivered to the Ecuadorian Air Force (Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana, FAE) in February this year.

Ecuadorian Air Force Dhruv

Reports quoted witnesses as saying the helicopter was flying in formation with two other choppers over an air force base near Quito yesterday when it suddenly veered off course and slammed to the ground.

"The two crew members managed to get out by their own means and were taken to hospital. Their condition is apparently good," air force general Leonardo Barreiro told reporters.

He said the chopper was destroyed in the accident, which is now being investigated.

The crew members had received their familiarisation training in India.

A presidential office statement said the remaining six Dhruv helicopters "have been grounded for the moment until the investigation is finished."

The Dhruv is also used by Ecuador president Rafael Correa.