Summary
On 9 June 2021 at approximately 07:30 local time (13:30 UTC), a Piper PA-22 Tri-Pacer, registration TI-ATK, operated as a private recreational flight, suffered an accident during landing at Aeródromo de Arenal (MRAN) located in El Tanque, La Fortuna, San Carlos, Alajuela, Costa Rica.
Aircraft and Flight Information
The aircraft was a Piper PA-22-150 Tri-Pacer, manufactured by Piper Aircraft, powered by a Lycoming O-360 A4A piston engine. It was privately operated. The flight originated from Aeropuerto Internacional Tobías Bolaños Palma (MRPV) and was local and recreational. There were two occupants on board: the pilot and one passenger, both Costa Rican nationals.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft was landing on Runway 06 at MRAN. After touchdown, the aircraft veered to the right. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation, but the correction had no positive effect. The aircraft then departed the active runway into the safety area strip, where the pilot lost control. The aircraft ended up in a ditch and collided with the aerodrome's perimeter fence, damaging the fence wires and two posts.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained major damage, including deformation of the fuselage, damage to the propeller, the left wing, the landing gear, and parts of the tubular and fabric structure. No fire was observed before or after the impact. Both the pilot and passenger exited the accident site uninjured.
Investigation Status
The investigation is being conducted by the Accident Investigation Authority (AIA) of the Consejo Técnico de Aviación Civil (CETAC) of Costa Rica. As of 9 June 2022, the investigation was 70% complete. The focus includes human performance and interaction with environmental conditions. No probable cause has been determined, and the investigation remains ongoing.