"It's a lot closer than you can get at a typical airport, in the States especially, " said Schlechter.

CNN: Plane spotters seek 'Wayne's World' thrills

After referring to the checklist, Schlechter diverted the airliner and landed in nearby Richmond, Virginia, as a precaution.

CNN: Why Dreamliner batteries worry experts

"One guy flies while the other guy fixes, and then you make a decision, " says Justin Schlechter, a 13-year airline pilot.

CNN: Why Dreamliner batteries worry experts

Schlechter remembers a problem aboard his aircraft in 2004 when a passenger looking out a window spotted a minor fuel leak near the wing.

CNN: Why Dreamliner batteries worry experts

"If you like airplanes, Maho is like the cherry on top" of a beautiful beach vacation, said Justin Schlechter, a 747 pilot who's visited Maho several times.

CNN: Plane spotters seek 'Wayne's World' thrills

Another time, a crack appeared in Schlechter's cockpit windshield.

CNN: Why Dreamliner batteries worry experts

Read more about Schlechter's trips to Maho.

CNN: Plane spotters seek 'Wayne's World' thrills