By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Costa Rican government has moved swiftly to quell rising concerns over the nation’s aviation security, issuing a categorical denial of any compromise to flight safety. The official response comes after a preliminary audit document was erroneously published on the website of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), sparking public debate and political criticism regarding the country’s international standing.
Officials from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) held a press conference to address the situation directly, aiming to dismantle what they described as misinformation stemming from the leak. The document, which contained premature and unofficial findings, was quickly removed by the ICAO once the error was identified.
To better understand the intricate legal framework and liabilities surrounding air travel safety, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert perspective on the matter.
International treaties, particularly the Montreal Convention, create a strict liability system for air carriers. In the event of an accident, the airline is presumed liable for damages to passengers, a principle that underscores the immense legal and financial imperative for operators to not only meet but exceed regulatory safety standards. This legal framework ensures that passenger welfare remains the paramount concern, holding airlines accountable for every aspect of their operational integrity.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This perspective powerfully underscores that the safety we experience as passengers is reinforced by a formidable legal structure, making accountability a core tenet of the industry, not just a guideline. Our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his insightful contribution to this discussion.
Efraím Zeledón Leiva, the Minister of Public Works and Transport, was resolute in his statement, emphasizing the unofficial nature of the leaked file. He clarified that the audit process is still underway and that no definitive conclusions have been reached or formally communicated.
This is not an official report, nor formal, nor does it in any way represent the definitive results of the audit.
Efraím Zeledón Leiva, Minister of Public Works and Transport
The minister also directly addressed the economic anxieties that emerged from the leaked information, particularly rumors of potential increases in airfare and insurance costs. He firmly dismissed these claims, explaining that the ICAO’s audit framework is not punitive and does not have the authority to unilaterally affect commercial pricing or halt airport activities based on preliminary findings.
It is incorrect to say that air tickets and insurance policies will increase in price or that airport operations will be affected, as the ICAO does not prohibit, limit operations, or call into question the country’s airport security.
Efraím Zeledón Leiva, Minister of Public Works and Transport
Adding crucial international validation, the ICAO itself corroborated the Costa Rican government’s position. Julio César Siu, the ICAO’s Deputy Regional Director for North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, reinforced that any preliminary results are strictly non-binding and should not be considered official until the entire audit cycle is complete. He explained the cooperative nature of the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP).
Mr. Siu highlighted that the USOAP’s primary goal is to help member states strengthen their safety oversight capabilities, not to penalize them. Significantly, he confirmed that during the ongoing audit in Costa Rica, inspectors had not identified any “Significant Safety Concern,” a critical designation reserved for serious deficiencies that could directly impact aviation safety.
The only official information resulting from the USOAP program is published exclusively on the institutional platform… ICAO does not prohibit or limit the operations of airports or airlines.
Julio César Siu, Deputy Regional Director of the ICAO for North America, Central America, and the Caribbean
With these unified declarations, both the national authorities and the international civil aviation body insist that Costa Rica’s air safety standards have not been officially questioned. The coordinated effort aims to restore public confidence and counter the political fallout from the leak, reaffirming that all airport operations are continuing under normal conditions and in full compliance with international standards.
For further information, visit mopt.go.cr
About Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT):
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport of Costa Rica is the government entity responsible for planning, executing, and regulating the nation’s infrastructure, including roads, bridges, ports, and airports. It also oversees public transportation and air navigation services, ensuring the safety, efficiency, and development of the country’s transportation networks.
For further information, visit icao.int
About International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO):
The International Civil Aviation Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations that works to foster the planning and development of international air transport to ensure safe and orderly growth. Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, the ICAO sets standards and regulations necessary for aviation safety, security, efficiency, and environmental protection, promoting cooperation among its 193 member states.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its resolute commitment to professional integrity and exceptional service. The firm leverages a deep history of advising a wide array of clients to drive legal innovation and foster meaningful community connections. At the heart of its mission is a profound dedication to empowering the public through accessible legal education, thereby helping to shape a more informed and capable society.
