What happened
On May 27, 2021, at approximately 6:15 a.m., an Auto Gyro MTO Sport (MTOS 17), registration UL-TI-113, was preparing for a private flight from Limón International Airport (MRLM) to Monte Reina (MRMR). The aircraft was carrying two occupants, including the pilot.
During the takeoff roll from runway 14, the area experienced a transition from light drizzle to heavy rain. According to the pilot, the intensity of the rainfall during the takeoff roll necessitated an extended ground run to reach a section of the runway where the rain had subsided. As the aircraft attempted to climb, heavy rain returned over the runway threshold. The pilot attempted a slight turn toward heading 32 to realign with the runway; however, due to the deteriorating conditions and poor climb performance, the pilot was unable to return to the runway and instead executed an emergency landing on a beach parallel to the airfield.
The investigation
The Accident Investigation Authority (AIA) conducted an examination of the scene, including the analysis of photographic evidence of tracks and debris found at the landing site. The investigators evaluated the interaction between the aircraft and the environment, specifically focusing on the meteorological conditions and the terrain of the emergency landing area. Technical aspects of the aircraft were also reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.