Accident Overview
On Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at approximately 16:50 UTC (10:50 a.m. local time), a Piper PA-34-200T twin-engine aircraft, registration TI-API, operated by Carmon Air Charter Ltda., was involved in an accident at Carate Aerodrome (MRCE), Costa Rica (coordinates N8°26.52' / W83°27.55').
Flight Sequence
The flight was a commercial operation. According to the preliminary report, the aircraft reported to air traffic control that it was about to land at Carate Aerodrome to drop off a passenger. After landing normally and disembarking the passenger, the crew proceeded with a takeoff maneuver. After traveling approximately 600 meters down the runway, the aircraft descended to the ground. Upon impact, the aircraft caught fire.
Injuries and Damage
Both occupants of the aircraft, the male pilot aged 55 holding an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATP), were fatally injured at the scene. No passengers were on board during the accident flight. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, and there was evidence of fire. Additionally, the runway asphalt was damaged.
Aircraft and Engine Information
The aircraft was a Piper PA-34-200T, equipped with two Continental Motors engines: a left-hand engine model LTSIO-360-EB-C-KB (serial number 234713-R) and a right-hand engine model TSIO-360-EB-C-KB (serial number 233873-R). The aircraft's registration was TI-API, and the operator was Carmon Air Charter Ltda.
Investigation Status
The investigation is being conducted by the Unidad de Accidentes e Incidentes Aéreos (UAI-CETAC) of Costa Rica's Consejo Técnico de Aviación Civil. As of the provisional declaration dated July 16, 2025, the investigation is approximately 60% complete. Investigators have focused on photographic and video evidence, as well as examination of the accident scene. The engines are scheduled to be sent to the manufacturer, Continental Motors, for detailed analysis. The final report will be published on the DGAC website once completed.
Probable Cause
No probable cause has been determined at this stage of the investigation.