St. Maarten, Sept. 8, 2025 — A WestJet flight traveling from Toronto to the Caribbean island of St. Maarten endured a rough landing Sunday at Princess Juliana International Airport, startling passengers but causing no reported injuries.
Incident Details
The Boeing 737 touched down in turbulent conditions, with witnesses describing the impact as unusually harsh. Known for its challenging approach over Maho Beach, the airport frequently tests pilots with shifting crosswinds.
Several passengers recounted the tense moment as the aircraft bounced before settling on the runway. Videos shared online show the jet coming down hard on its main landing gear before rolling safely to a stop.
Passenger Reactions
“I’ve flown to the island before, but this was by far the roughest landing I’ve ever experienced,” said one traveler. “People were holding onto the seats, and you could hear gasps when the wheels hit.”
Another passenger described the landing as “a jolt that shook everyone,” but praised the crew for remaining calm and professional throughout the flight.
Airline Response
In a statement, WestJet confirmed the aircraft landed safely and emphasized that passenger and crew safety was never compromised.
“Our flight crew executed a landing at Princess Juliana International Airport amid variable wind conditions. All passengers and crew disembarked safely, and the aircraft is undergoing a standard post-landing inspection,” the airline said.
Balanced Reporting & Context
Aviation analysts note that rough landings, while unsettling, are not uncommon at airports like St. Maarten’s, which is internationally recognized for its short runway and difficult approach.
Local aviation authorities are expected to review the incident as a precautionary measure. Early indications suggest crosswinds may have contributed to the harder-than-normal touchdown.
What’s Next
WestJet confirmed the aircraft will remain grounded in St. Maarten until safety checks are complete. Passengers booked on return flights are being accommodated on alternative aircraft.
Tourism officials reassured travelers that flight operations at the airport remain normal. While the rough landing created headlines, the incident underscores both the skill and challenges faced by airline crews flying into one of the world’s most iconic — and demanding — runways.
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!