On September 7, 2025, a WestJet Boeing 737-800 experienced a significant incident during landing at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in Sint Maarten.
Operating as flight WS2276 from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), the aircraft suffered a hard landing on Runway 10 at approximately 1:31 PM local time.
The impact caused the collapse of the right-hand main landing gear (MLG) and damage to the right-hand engine and wing. This prompted an immediate response from airport authorities and emergency services.
The Sint Maarten Civil Aviation Authority, with support from WestJet and Boeing, has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the incident.
WestJet Landing Incident Sint Maarten
According to eyewitnesses, including plane spotter Paul Ellinger, the aircraft’s approach appeared normal but slightly high.
Upon touchdown, the right main landing gear failed, causing the aircraft to skid along the runway. The right engine scraped the tarmac, producing sparks and smoke, though no fire erupted.
Emergency crews swiftly deployed fire-retarding foam as a precaution. All 164 passengers and crew were safely evacuated via emergency slides and transported to the terminal.
No injuries were reported, though three individuals were taken for medical evaluations out of caution.
Airport Statement
The Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company N.V. (PJIAE) issued a confirming statement following the landing incident.
“Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company N.V. (PJIAE) is aware of an incident involving a WestJet aircraft earlier today, in which one of the wings sustained damage.”
“We are relieved to confirm that all passengers and crew safely disembarked, as their safety and well-being remain our highest priority. At this time, all air traffic to PJIAE has been temporarily suspended and no aircraft will be permitted to land until further notice.”
Temporary Airport Closure
The airport closure, announced to last until at least 7:00 PM local time, caused significant disruptions. Inbound flights were diverted to alternate airports, such as San Juan, Puerto Rico, while outbound flights faced delays or cancellations.
PJIAE mobilized contractors with heavy equipment to remove the immobilized aircraft and conduct runway safety inspections. The Boeing 737-800, grounded due to its collapsed MLG and damaged wing and engine, remains a focal point for investigators.
WestJet confirmed the hard landing in a statement, emphasizing the safe evacuation of all onboard and pledging full cooperation with authorities.
Conclusion
The investigation will examine flight data, maintenance records, and potential human factors, such as pilot input during the landing. Weather conditions, reported as clear, are also under review.
Princess Juliana International Airport is renowned for its challenging approach over Maho Beach, where low-altitude landings are a spectacle for plane spotters but demand precision.
The runway’s proximity to the beach and its relatively short length amplify operational risks. A 2017 incident involving a WestJet flight at SXM, which descended dangerously low due to poor visibility, underscores the airport’s unique challenges.
WestJet and PJIAE have advised passengers to check their respective websites for updates on flight statuses and airport operations. As the investigation progresses, authorities aim to restore normal operations while ensuring safety remains paramount.
