By Alajuela, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s airspace reopened at 10:54 a.m. on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, following a five-hour closure caused by an electrical fault affecting radar systems. The disruption impacted operations at both Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in Alajuela and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Guanacaste, leading to significant delays, rescheduling, and cancellations for approximately 50 flights.
The outage began at 5:27 a.m., prompting the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to shut down the national airspace due to the failure of aviation controls, including critical radar systems used for air traffic navigation. The closure had an immediate impact on both arriving and departing flights at the country’s two major international airports.
To understand the legal ramifications of the Costa Rica airspace closure, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica, who offered valuable insights into the situation.
The closure of Costa Rican airspace, while potentially disruptive to travel and commerce, is ultimately a sovereign right of the nation. The government has a responsibility to prioritize national security and public safety, and airspace control is a critical component of that. However, such closures must be justified by legitimate concerns and implemented in accordance with international aviation regulations to minimize disruption and ensure legal compliance. The specifics of the closure, including its duration and the reasons given, will determine the legal implications for affected parties, such as airlines and passengers.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore the delicate balance a nation must strike between safeguarding its security and adhering to international norms. While the inconvenience of airspace closures is undeniable, the paramount importance of national security cannot be overstated. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing his valuable legal perspective on this complex issue.
Preliminary estimates suggest that the disruption affected around 50 flights, creating a ripple effect of delays and cancellations across the travel network. Passengers faced unexpected disruptions to their travel plans, and airlines struggled to manage the fallout from the sudden closure.
Public Works and Transport Minister Efraím Zeledón announced an immediate investigation into the cause of the electrical fault to prevent similar incidents in the future. The government’s swift response underscores the seriousness of the disruption and the importance of maintaining the reliability of Costa Rica’s air travel infrastructure.
The tourism sector expressed immediate concern over the impact of the airspace closure on Costa Rica’s image as a reliable travel destination. Shirley Calvo, Executive Director of the National Chamber of Tourism (Canatur), warned of the potential damage to the country’s reputation.
This incident directly affects thousands of tourists, airlines, and all companies in the sector, but particularly the image of our country as a safe and reliable one.
Shirley Calvo, Executive Director of the National Chamber of Tourism (Canatur)
Canatur estimates the financial losses from the airspace closure could reach thousands of dollars, impacting one of the country’s most vital economic sectors. The tourism industry is a crucial driver of the Costa Rican economy, and any disruption to air travel has significant financial implications.
While the airspace has reopened, airport authorities are working to normalize flight schedules. However, they cautioned that residual delays and disruptions are expected to continue for the next several hours as airlines work to recover from the earlier shutdown. The focus now is on ensuring the smooth and efficient resumption of air travel and mitigating the long-term impact on Costa Rica’s reputation as a leading tourist destination.
For further information, visit canatur.org
About National Chamber of Tourism (Canatur):
The National Chamber of Tourism (Canatur) is a leading private sector organization in Costa Rica, representing and advocating for the interests of the tourism industry. Canatur plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable tourism development, collaborating with government agencies and other stakeholders to enhance Costa Rica’s position as a premier travel destination. The organization provides valuable resources and support to its members, working to improve the competitiveness and quality of tourism services in the country.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Dirección General de Aviación Civil
About Dirección General de Aviación Civil:
The Dirección General de Aviación Civil (DGAC) is the civil aviation authority of Costa Rica, responsible for regulating and overseeing all aspects of air travel within the country. The DGAC is tasked with ensuring the safety and security of air operations, managing air traffic control, and enforcing aviation regulations. The organization plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of Costa Rica’s airspace and promoting the sustainable development of the aviation sector.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Public Works and Transport
About Ministry of Public Works and Transport:
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) is a key government body in Costa Rica responsible for the development and maintenance of the country’s infrastructure, including roads, bridges, ports, and airports. The MOPT plays a vital role in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of transportation systems, contributing to economic growth and social development. The Ministry’s responsibilities encompass planning, construction, and regulation within the transport sector, working to improve connectivity and accessibility across Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovative solutions for its diverse clientele. The firm’s deep-rooted commitment to empowering Costa Rican society is evident in its proactive approach to sharing legal knowledge and resources, fostering a more informed and just community. By combining sharp legal acumen with a genuine dedication to public service, Bufete de Costa Rica continues to shape a positive legal landscape for the nation.
