PHILIPSBURG, St. Maarten, CMC – The Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company (PJIAE) confirmed on Sunday that all passengers were safely evacuated after a WestJet Boeing 737-800 aircraft experienced a landing gear collapse while landing on Sunday afternoon, forcing the airport to shut down operations temporarily.
In a statement, PJIAE said WestJet flight WS2276 from Toronto touched down at 1:31 p.m. (local time) when the aircraft’s right landing gear failed, causing it to skid along the runway.
“We are relieved to report that there were no injuries. Out of an abundance of caution, three individuals were taken for medical evaluation. There was no fire; however, contact with the runway caused damage to the aircraft’s right wing,” the statement noted.
Emergency crews responded immediately, covering the runway with foam to prevent the flames from spreading while passengers evacuated through emergency slides.
Witnesses described the response as swift and well-coordinated, with passengers, including children, escorted by bus directly to the terminal. PJIAE said local contractors have been contacted to assist with the removal of the aircraft.
The runway will remain closed until it is cleared and inspected by the SXM Civil Aviation Authority. All relevant aviation authorities and stakeholders have been notified, and passengers were advised to check directly with WestJet for further updates.
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