WestJet Aircraft Sustains Damage During Landing in Sint Maarten

A WestJet Boeing 737-800 operating flight #WS2276 from Toronto to Sint Maarten sustained damage during landing at Princess Juliana International Airport. All 164 people on board were safely evacuated, and an investigation into the incident is underway. Following the event, the airport was temporarily closed to air traffic.

Official Statement from the Airport Operator:

“Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company N.V. (PJIAE) confirms that today an incident occurred during the landing of WestJet flight WS2276, a Boeing 737-800, operating from Toronto (YYZ) to St. Maarten (SXM). The aircraft landed at 13:31 local time.

A total of 164 persons were on board, and no injuries have been reported. However, three individuals were taken for medical evaluation as a precaution.

There was no fire, but contact with the runway resulted in damage to the aircraft’s right wing.

PJIAE, together with local partners and heavy equipment providers, is working to safely remove the aircraft from the runway. For this reason, the airport will remain closed until further notice.”