Costa Rica Air Surveillance Fleet Collapses from 18 to 2 Operational Aircraft

Costa Rica's air surveillance capability has degraded from roughly 18 aircraft to only two operational units by 2026, according to a translated report. The reduction, attributed to bureaucratic delays in maintenance and procurement, has left the country with minimal aerial oversight, raising concerns about drug trafficking and border security. The claim is sourced from a single outlet and lacks official confirmation, so the exact timeline and cause remain uncertain.