WestJet flight WS2276 from Toronto landed in St. Maarten on Sunday when its right landing gear failed. The plane skidded along the runway, but emergency crews responded immediately. They used foam to prevent a fire and helped all 164 passengers evacuate safely. Three people were checked by medics as a precaution, though no injuries were reported.

Firefighters quickly covered the aircraft, and passengers used emergency slides to exit onto waiting buses. Witnesses praised the fast and coordinated response by airport staff and first responders.

As a result, Princess Juliana International Airport shut down temporarily. Officials said they will clear and inspect the runway before resuming operations. Airlines such as Delta and JetBlue diverted their flights, while others, including KLM and American, remain grounded until the aircraft is removed.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the gear collapse. Both WestJet and the St. Maarten Civil Aviation Authority will examine maintenance records, flight data, and runway conditions to understand what went wrong.

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