Costa Rica’s DGAC Night Flight Ban Puts CCSS Medical Air Transfers at Risk

The Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) has voiced serious concern. This follows a new restriction on nighttime flights at national airfields. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) implemented the rule in October 2025. It limits operations at uncontrolled aerodromes after dark. This directly impacts CCSS medical air transfers for critically ill patients.

Regulatory Background

The DGAC introduced the rule to boost aviation safety. It targets aerodromes that lack full nighttime infrastructure. The policy prohibits takeoffs and landings between sunset and sunrise. Exceptions are only made for controlled airports. The DGAC maintains this policy enhances overall aviation security. However, critics argue it creates unnecessary emergency response barriers. Global aviation bodies like the ICAO set standards for safe night operations.

Impact on Emergency Air Evacuations

The restriction hinders prompt medical attention for patients. Health officials estimate the measure affects 200 to 300 annual air transfers. These emergency air evacuations move patients from remote areas. Patients often travel from the Caribbean coast and southern zones. They need specialized care at Central Valley hospitals.

Without nighttime options, ground ambulances become the only choice. This significantly extends travel times. For critical conditions, every minute is vital. One operator completed 122 nighttime missions in 18 months before the ban. They emphasize the life-saving role of these flights. The ban forces reliance on slower ground transport alternatives. This strains resources and delays essential care.

Health and Aviation Sector Response

The situation is particularly pressing for regional hospitals. Facilities in Limón and Puntarenas depend on air links. They move patients needing trauma care or organ transplants. Delays have already forced some case redistribution. This approach has limits when specialized equipment is unavailable. The CCSS has formally requested a review of the directive. They suggest targeted exemptions for medical flights.

Discussions between health authorities and aviation regulators continue. The goal is to balance safety with patient needs. The current policy creates a major challenge for Costa Rica healthcare logistics. Geography often dictates the emergency response strategy. The global air transport industry, represented by groups like IATA, monitors such regulatory changes. This story is a key topic in commercial aviation news.

Until a resolution is reached, the sunset to sunrise ban remains in place. The CCSS must adapt protocols. They are preparing for an increase in ground transfers. The aviation safety policy must find a path forward. This requires balancing operational security with humanitarian needs. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) often faces similar challenges in its oversight.