Six people were injured after a WestJet Airlines flight made a hard landing at Kahului Airport in Hawaii. The incident occurred on September 19, 2023, when Flight WS 177, arriving from Vancouver, faced difficulties during its descent. Eyewitnesses reported that the aircraft landed abruptly, causing a jolt that sent passengers and crew members scrambling.
Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene. Initial reports indicated that two of the injured were taken to local hospitals for further evaluation, while others sustained minor injuries but did not require extensive medical attention. The airline stated that all necessary measures were being taken to ensure the safety and well-being of those on board.
WestJet Airlines confirmed the incident and expressed their commitment to conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the hard landing. The airline also emphasized that safety is their top priority and that they would cooperate fully with aviation authorities.
Passengers described a chaotic atmosphere inside the cabin during and after the landing. Some reported that overhead compartments opened, spilling luggage onto the aisles, adding to the confusion. Despite the unsettling experience, many passengers expressed gratitude for the crew’s professionalism in handling the situation.
Kahului Airport officials worked to clear the aircraft and assess any potential impacts on airport operations. The runway was temporarily closed, leading to some delays in flight schedules, but it was reopened shortly after the incident was addressed.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding the factors that contributed to the hard landing and ensuring the safety of future flights. Passengers are encouraged to reach out to WestJet for support and assistance following the event.