Passengers aboard an Iberia Airbus A350 bound for Madrid witnessed an unexpected airport accident when a fire truck conducting a ceremonial water salute reportedly struck the aircraft’s left wing. Video recorded by a passenger captured the moment of impact, turning what was intended to be a celebratory sendoff into a costly operational disruption.

The incident occurred before departure from Ecuador, prompting airline and airport officials to halt the flight while the aircraft underwent inspections for potential structural damage. As a result, the scheduled service to Madrid was cancelled, leaving travelers stranded and awaiting alternative arrangements.

While no injuries were reported, the mishap has drawn attention to airport ground-operation safety procedures and the risks associated with ceremonial activities conducted near aircraft. Investigators are expected to review the circumstances surrounding the collision to determine how the fire truck came into contact with the wing during the water salute.