Accident Overview
On March 5, 2021, at 10:00 local time (16:00 UTC), a Cessna C182P aircraft, registration TI-ABE, operated privately, departed from Aeropuerto Internacional Tobías Bolaños (MRPV) with a planned destination of Aeródromo de Sirena (MRSN). The flight was conducted under visual flight rules (VFR) in daylight conditions. According to the pilot, the aircraft experienced a partial loss of engine power during the en route phase. The pilot decided against landing at the nearest airport, Palmar Sur (MRPM), due to obstacles, and instead performed an emergency landing on an island located between Isla Boca Chica and Isla Zacate in the Sierpe de Osa area, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica.
Aircraft and Occupants
The aircraft was a Cessna Model C182P, a single-engine fixed-wing airplane equipped with a Continental R-0470R78B piston engine. It had a fuel capacity of 78 gallons, providing approximately five hours of endurance. On board were three persons: a male pilot aged 56 holding a Private Pilot license, and two passengers.
Flight Details
The flight was a private operation. The route followed the coastline. After the partial power loss, the pilot chose to land on a sandy island. Although the landing itself was described as good, the nose landing gear sank into the sand due to high tide. The aircraft sustained minor damage, including nose gear damage from dragging in the sand, loss of the propeller, and possible additional damage from contact with saltwater (not yet fully assessed). No fire occurred, and no dangerous goods were on board.
Injuries and Damage
All three occupants—the pilot and two passengers—escaped unharmed and were rescued via air by the Ministry of Public Security on the same day. The aircraft damage was classified as minor.
Investigation Status
The accident investigation is being conducted by the Accident Investigation Authority (AIA) of Costa Rica, in accordance with national and international regulations. As of the provisional declaration dated March 5, 2022, the investigation was 65% complete. The focus has included human performance, environmental conditions (weather and terrain), and technical aspects of the aircraft. The final report is pending completion of analysis, conclusions, and possible safety recommendations. The case remains under investigation.