Occurrence
On 7 March 2017, a WestJet Boeing 737-800 (registration C-GWSV, serial number 37158) operating as flight 2652 (WJA2652) was conducting a scheduled instrument flight rules flight from Toronto/Lester B. Pearson International Airport, Ontario, to Princess Juliana International Airport, Sint Maarten. During the approach to Runway 10, the aircraft deviated from the normal descent path.
At 1534 Atlantic Standard Time, the aircraft was 0.30 nautical miles from the runway threshold and had descended to an altitude of 40 feet above the water. The crew then initiated a missed approach. Given that visibility was below the limits for conducting a second approach, the flight was cleared to hold until conditions had improved. After visibility improved, the crew conducted a second approach and landed at 1618 Atlantic Standard Time without further incident.
Investigation
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada classified this occurrence as a Class 3 investigation. These investigations analyze a small number of safety issues and may result in recommendations. Class 3 investigations are generally completed within 450 days.