AERObridge, the humanitarian organization that arranges relief flights, is reaching out for assistance in the aftermath of the earthquakes that have ravaged Ecuador over the past five days. The initial 7.8-magnitude earthquake on April 16 along the coastline has been the deadliest in Ecuador since 1987, according to news reports, and numerous aftershock tremors have followed, including a 6.1-magnitude earthquake earlier today. As many as 1,700 people are reported missing, and the death toll continues to rise, topping 500.

AERObridge has been seeking volunteers, supplies and aircraft to support relief efforts. The organization is coordinating with the Ecuadorian General of Air Operations to use Eloy Alfaro International Airport in Manta as a staging point.

The organization specifically is requesting funding for fuel, ready-to-eat meals, water purification units, medical supplies, insect spray, tents, satphones and small solar chargers. In addition, the organization stressed it needs aircraft to deliver these supplies. “We used dozens [of aircraft] in Haiti, and they made all the difference, both with inbound and outbound trips, moving more than 750,000 pounds [of materials] and 4,400 people into and more than 3,000 out of Haiti,” the organization said.

For more information, contact AERObridge at mstevenson@aerobridge.org.