WestJet Flight WS2654 turns back from Dominican Republic route and makes emergency landing in Canada

Published January 31, 2026

Author: Rana Pratap

Just 20 minutes after departing that morning (insert date), WestJet flight WS2654 was en route from Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ) when it suddenly turned back to Canada. Precautionary weight-relief operations were carried out to ensure the safety of passengers, prompting the flight, which initially appeared to be on course for its Caribbean destination, to be turned back. The Boeing 737 circled briefly, then entered a holding pattern and made an emergency landing in Halifax. The airline assured that the crew complied with normal safety procedures and that all passengers deplaned without incident. This reversal demonstrates the airline’s dedication to ensuring passenger safety even in extraordinary circumstances.

an incident breaks out

Flight tracking data showed the plane had reached cruising altitude and initially appeared to be on track for its destination of Punta Cana. However, after flying for about 20 minutes, the plane made a sharp turn and began heading back toward Canada. No emergency was declared during the short flight, but the aircraft entered a holding pattern upon return.

The main reason for this unusual maneuver appears to be weight reduction, which is standard procedure for aircraft that need to return home quickly after departure. Weight reduction is typically done to reduce the weight of an aircraft in preparation for an emergency landing or to comply with safety regulations. Despite this precaution, no formal state of emergency was declared.

Holding pattern and emergency landing

After the turnback, the aircraft established a holding pattern. This is common when weight needs to be reduced before landing. This process helps ensure the safety and stability of the aircraft when landing at a lower weight than originally planned. It is believed that the crew took this action to meet proper landing conditions for the aircraft.

After circling for a period of time, the flight crew successfully completed a precautionary emergency landing in Halifax, awaiting clearance for safe return. In this situation, passengers on the aircraft were not at risk and there was no need to call emergency services. After returning to the ground, the aircraft taxied safely to the gate and passengers deplaned without incident.

aftermath

Although there were no injuries, the brief incident raised questions about the cause behind the weight-reduction procedure. Passengers on board received further instructions and reassurance from the crew to ensure their safety during the flight. Airline WestJet issued a statement confirming that no emergency had been declared and the decision for the crew to return to Halifax was made based on standard procedures.

WestJet representatives also confirmed that they would conduct a thorough investigation into the aircraft’s return and review the actions taken by the crew. They assured that safety remains the airline’s top priority and passengers will be accommodated on the next available flight to their destination.

Impact on the travel industry

Although incidents like this are rare, they highlight the importance of emergency response plans and the critical role flight crews play in ensuring passenger safety. While this situation may have caused some delays for travelers to the Dominican Republic, the airline’s quick response and adherence to protocols reassured the public that passenger safety remained its top priority.

Additionally, WestJet said it will work closely with airport authorities to resolve operational issues arising from this incident and ensure smooth future operations. Affected passengers were offered compensation and alternative travel arrangements, which is standard practice in such situations.

WestJet Flight WS2654 was forced to return to Canada after just 20 minutes of flight from Halifax to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The turnaround was due to precautionary weight reduction procedures to ensure passenger safety.

conclusion

In conclusion, WestJet Flight WS2654’s return to Canada after just 20 minutes of flight highlights the company’s commitment to safety. Precautions taken by the crew, including a holding pattern to reduce weight, ensured a safe and controlled return to Halifax. Although no emergency had been declared, the return of the aircraft was handled professionally and the situation was resolved with no injuries or damage.