A ceremonial water salute at José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport took an unexpected turn on June 4 when an Iberia Airbus A350 sustained damage while preparing for departure to Madrid. The aircraft, registered EC-NXD, was taxiing for flight IB132 when the incident occurred during celebrations marking the introduction of the A350 on the Guayaquil–Madrid route.
Airport authorities had organized the traditional water cannon salute to commemorate the aircraft’s inaugural service, replacing the Airbus A330 previously used on the route. However, as the aircraft passed beneath the water arch, its left wingtip reportedly struck the extended boom of one of the airport fire trucks participating in the ceremony.
Photos from the scene showed visible damage to the aircraft’s left winglet, including a noticeable tear. Following the impact, the flight crew safely returned the aircraft to the gate, and the scheduled service to Madrid was subsequently canceled while technical teams began assessing the extent of the damage.
No injuries were reported among passengers, crew members, ground personnel, or firefighters involved in the event. The aircraft will remain out of service until inspections and any required repairs are completed, with investigators expected to review the circumstances surrounding the incident.