WestJet flight suffers landing gear collapse at St. Maarten; all passengers safe

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WestJet flight suffers landing gear collapse at St. Maarten; all passengers safe

Policy

Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO | WestJet

By Sky Industry News

Sep 15, 2025

On Sunday, September 7, a WestJet Boeing 737-800 experienced a right main landing gear collapse while landing at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in Sint Maarten. The aircraft, registered as C-GWSR and operating as flight WS2276, came to a stop with its right engine supporting the plane’s weight.

All passengers and crew were evacuated safely without injuries. There was no fire due to the prompt application of fire suppression foam by emergency responders. The runway was temporarily closed following the incident, but airport operations have since resumed.

The cause of the mechanical failure is still under investigation. The aircraft involved had been in service for over 16 years. “First and foremost, we are grateful that the passengers and crew of WestJet flight WS2276 are safe following today’s incident at Princess Juliana International Airport. The safety and security of travelers, our aviation personnel, and the general public remain our highest priority,” said Dr. Luc Mercelina, Prime Minister of Sint Maarten.

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“While the runway remains closed for the time being, every measure is being taken to ensure that the airport resumes safe operations as soon as possible. Together, we will ensure a safe and swift return to normal operations,” Mercelina added.

Saint Maarten's airport is well known for its proximity to Maho Beach and attracts aviation enthusiasts due to low approaches over the shoreline. The runway is more than 7,500 feet long and accommodates large aircraft regularly. Emergency crews responded quickly on Sunday, demonstrating their preparedness for such incidents.

There has been speculation regarding the cause of the gear collapse on online forums and aviation websites such as Aviation Herald, ranging from pilot handling issues to parts fatigue or failure. However, officials have stated that further details will be released after an official investigation concludes.

WestJet recently announced its largest order of Boeing aircraft just days before this incident occurred. On September 3, 2025, WestJet finalized an agreement with Boeing for 60 new 737 MAX 10 jets and seven 787 Dreamliner widebodies, with options for additional units in an effort to modernize its fleet.

The airline also reported record-high passenger numbers over the weekend prior to this event—between August 29 and September 1—when it carried over 310,000 travelers across international destinations.

WestJet operates out of several Canadian hubs including Calgary International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, and Vancouver International Airport. Founded in 1994 and led by CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet continues to expand both its fleet and network amid ongoing safety evaluations.