Nature Air’s “Your art in the air” contest, which asked the public to submit designs for its airplane tails, was supposed to crown three winners, but seven were chosen after 200 submissions were received.

“It was difficult to choose among so many beautiful designs,” said Gustavo Chinchilla, president of Nature Air. “We want to extend our thanks to everyone who participated because they really shone and they made it very difficult for us to choose.”

Winners will receive a round-trip flight in the plane bearing their design, with two nights’ lodging, plus their work will appear in the in-flight magazine Landings.

Alejandro Barboza of Costa Rica, who won for two of his designs, said, “I’m very happy and grateful. It’s about time that Costa Rica recognizes the work that we lovers of art create. In both designs I was inspired by nature because for me it’s sacred.”

The winners are:

Alejandro Barboza, Costa Rica — winner for two designs

Azalea Yahosca Zapata, Nicaragua

Alexandra Soto, Costa Rica

Stephanie Chaves, Costa Rica

Sergio Alonso Morera, Costa Rica

Stephen Duplantier, Costa Rica

“Since we’re a regional airline, we decided that from now on we’re going to offer the opportunity to show off the artistic talent of Nicaragua and Costa Rica,” Chinchilla said. “We want to proudly lift to the heights those designs that unite us as brother countries.”

Contact Karl Kahler at [email protected].