What happened
During the departure phase from Quito-Mariscal Sucre Airport, an unidentified aircraft encountered a technical issue while ascending. The flight crew observed that the left main landing gear warning light failed to extinguish following takeoff.
In response to this indication, the captain initiated an emergency diversion to Taura Air Force Base. During the approach and subsequent landing, the aircraft performed a belly landing on the runway. The plane slid for several dozen meters before coming to a complete stop. Despite the impact, all 99 occupants successfully evacuated the aircraft without any reported injuries. The airframe sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
Findings
Investigations into the mechanical failure revealed that the bolts located on the forward gear doors were unable to move properly. This malfunction was attributed to a stuck support rod within the landing gear assembly.