WestJet Boeing 737-800 Makes Hard Landing in Sint Maarten: Passengers Safe
Aircraft Incident in Sint Maarten
On 7 September 2025, a WestJet Boeing 737-800 passenger aircraft experienced a critical incident while landing at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in Sint Maarten. Flight WS2276, which had departed from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), made a hard landing on Runway 10 at around 13:31 local time.
During the landing, the right main landing gear (MLG) collapsed, causing significant damage to the right engine and wing. The incident prompted an immediate response from the airport’s emergency services.
Investigation Launched
The Sint Maarten Civil Aviation Authority, supported by WestJet and Boeing, has launched an official investigation to determine the cause of the incident. Eyewitnesses reported that the aircraft’s approach appeared generally normal, although it seemed slightly high.
When the right main landing gear failed, the aircraft skidded along the runway. The right engine scraped the runway surface, producing sparks and smoke but no fire. As a precaution, emergency crews deployed fire-retardant foam.
Passenger and Crew Evacuation
All 164 passengers and crew on board were safely evacuated via emergency slides and transported to the terminal. No serious injuries were reported, although three individuals received medical attention as a precaution.
Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company NV (PJIAE) released the following statement after the incident:
“We are very pleased to confirm that all passengers and crew have safely disembarked the aircraft. Their safety and well-being remain our top priority.”
Airport Traffic Disruptions
Following the incident, PJIAE temporarily suspended all air traffic, halting arrivals and departures until further notice. The closure was expected to last until at least 19:00 local time.
Incoming flights were diverted to alternative airports such as San Juan (Puerto Rico), while departures faced delays and cancellations. Heavy equipment contractors were deployed to remove the disabled aircraft and conduct runway safety inspections.
Damage and Technical Review
The collapse of the right main landing gear, along with the damage sustained to the right engine and wing, rendered the aircraft unairworthy. The Boeing 737-800 has been grounded pending technical inspections. Investigators are examining the skid marks, engine and wing damage, and landing gear failure to identify possible causes.
WestJet Statement
WestJet confirmed the hard landing in a statement, stressing that all passengers and crew were safely evacuated despite the technical failure. The airline pledged full cooperation with authorities and support for the ongoing investigation.
Flight Safety and Emergency Response
The incident serves as a significant reminder of aviation safety measures. According to aviation spotters, the combination of a high approach and landing gear failure caused the aircraft to skid on the runway. The swift intervention of emergency teams and use of fire-retardant foam prevented a potential disaster.
Such events highlight the importance of airport emergency response plans. PJIAE’s rapid action and WestJet’s coordinated evacuation procedures ensured passenger safety.
Conclusion and Ongoing Investigation
The hard landing in Sint Maarten represents a notable case study in operational safety for the Boeing 737-800 and the wider airline industry. The absence of reported serious injuries stands out as a positive outcome.
Until the investigation concludes, focus remains on the aircraft’s damaged components and the runway condition. WestJet and PJIAE continue to prioritise passenger safety as airport operations gradually return to normal.
WestJet Flight Safety Review: Critical Incidents in 2025
Canada-based WestJet Airlines has faced several notable safety-related incidents in 2025. Technical failures within its fleet have drawn scrutiny from aviation authorities and passengers alike.
Vancouver Airport Engine Fire – August 2025
In August 2025, a WestJet aircraft arriving in Vancouver from Tampa experienced an engine fire in its right engine. The fire was quickly extinguished, and around 50 passengers evacuated safely via emergency slides. No serious injuries were reported.
System Failure and Temporary Ground Stop – August 2025
On 12 August 2025, WestJet suffered a system outage that delayed aircraft handovers between maintenance and flight crews. The US Federal Aviation Administration issued a temporary “ground stop,” pausing operations briefly. All flights resumed normal schedules shortly thereafter.
Cyberattack – July 2025
In July 2025, WestJet’s internal systems were targeted by a cyberattack. While flight operations were not directly affected, the attack disrupted bookings via the airline’s website and mobile app. The company enhanced its security protocols and cooperated with authorities.
WestJet’s Commitment to Safety
WestJet continues to prioritise the safety of every flight in its fleet. The incidents in 2025 underscore the need for careful management of both technical and operational risks in aviation. The airline remains committed to implementing rigorous safety measures to protect its passengers.
