TSB points to mechanical failure in WestJet landing gear incident at PJIA

AIRPORT--The Transportation Safety Board of Canada has issued an updated investigation note on the WestJet Boeing 737-800 incident of September 7 at Princess Juliana International Airport, concluding the right main landing gear collapse was not the result of a hard landing. Preliminary analysis indicates a mechanical defect. Investigators identified a fracture in the aft trunnion pin of the right gear and have transferred both pin segments to the TSB laboratory in Ottawa for detailed examination. The cause of the fracture has not yet been determined. The aircraft’s landing gear last underwent extensive maintenance in 2016. The TSB is assessing whether similar fractures have occurred on this aircraft type. A final report will follow upon completion of the technical work.

On September 7, WestJet flight 2276 from Toronto touched down at PJIA and experienced a right-gear failure as it settled onto the runway. The aircraft scraped the surface, producing sparks and smoke while carrying more than 11,000 pounds of fuel. The flight crew radioed for fire and rescue, airport firefighters responded within minutes, and foam was applied as a precaution. Passengers were evacuated via the left-side slides during a brief rain shower. All 164 occupants exited safely. Three individuals were transported to the hospital for evaluation and later released.

Airport operations were disrupted through the afternoon and evening. Several flights diverted to Puerto Rico, while aircraft already on the ground, including KLM and American Airlines, remained parked. Regional services were canceled. The airport operator announced an extended runway closure for inspection and recovery. Overnight, preparations began to remove the aircraft. A WestJet team and a U.S. salvage crew arrived to lead the recovery operation, which concluded safely, allowing inspections and a phased return to service.

Government and airport officials met with the flight crew and emergency responders. The Prime Minister expressed appreciation for the coordinated response. The Minister of TEATT visited the airport and noted that the incident, unprecedented in scale for St. Maarten, will inform the review and refinement of emergency protocols. WestJet accommodated passengers in local hotels and coordinated medical assistance, transportation, and essential supplies in cooperation with government and airport partners.

Further updates will be provided when the TSB releases its final report. Media inquiries may be directed to the contacts below. Source: TSB Canada

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