A 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Ecuador on the evening of April 16, knocking down buildings across the country, taking the lives of over 350 people, and injuring thousands. The quake brought down buildings and bridges, destroyed roads, triggered landslides, and spurred the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center to issue a warning for the nearby Pacific coastline. The Red Cross estimates that over 100,000 people will need assistance.

Search and rescue operations are underway, and international nonprofit organizations are beginning to mobilize response efforts. Airlink, a rapid-response humanitarian relief organization that links airlines with pre-qualified nonprofits is deeply involved, and has already assisted in the transportation of personnel, including a Disaster Assessment Response Team from All Hands Volunteers, and personnel from Waves for Water who will provide access to clean water for those in need. The main humanitarian concerns in this relief effort will be access to healthcare, shelter, and clean water, due to the widespread infrastructural impacts.

Cargo Facts has long supported Airlink, and we encourage all members of the air freight industry to do the same. To find out how you can help, visit the Airlink website.

The aftermath of a 7.8 magnitude earthquake in Ecuador.