What is about the current state of the aviation sector in Sint Maarten. What are the challenges and opportunities on the island?
Sint Maarten handles between 1.5 and 2 million passengers a year, which is impressive for a small island. We have a local carrier, Winair, that handles over a quarter million passengers annually. This makes the airport quite unique, as it not only serves tourists but is also a lifeline for neighboring islands.
Can you give us a brief presentation of the airport and some key figures?
As a regional hub, we're not just a tourist destination; we're also an economic lifeline for the neighboring islands. The airport, which turns 80 this year, began as a small military airfield. Today, we serve ultra-luxury destinations like St. Barth and Anguilla, and also smaller islands like Saba and Stacia. It's a key player in regional connectivity.
The new arrival area is part of our ongoing efforts to improve passenger experience. This is a single terminal and runway airport, so everything we do is focused on enhancing the passenger experience, using technology to streamline operations and ensure a smooth flow.
Can you tell us about the reconstruction of the airport since Hurricane Irma in 2017 and the challenges you’ve faced?
After Irma destroyed the airport, it was a struggle to rebuild. We finally put together a plan in 2019, but the process took longer than expected. The goal was to make the terminal not only stronger but also future-proof and weather-resistant. We used the best materials and expertise to get it to where we are today.
What are your expectations and objectives for the next few years?
The key focus for 2025 is understanding and perfecting this new airport. We're focusing on passenger experience, from arrival to departure, ensuring everything is seamless. We also have plans for expansion, including a solar project to make the airport energy-independent and improvements to amenities and green energy initiatives.
How does Princess Juliana International Airport contribute to the economic and commercial development of Sint Maarten?
We're not just a tourism hub; we're an economic lifeline for Sint Maarten. The airport serves over 40 direct destinations, and it's crucial for trade, especially in luxury goods and fresh produce. Air cargo plays a major role, with direct links to Europe and the U.S.
Can you give us an overview of your partnerships and international relations with other airports and airlines?
We’ve formed a consortium with Dutch Caribbean airports, the DCCA, and host an annual conference. We also maintain a close relationship with the Royal Schiphol Group, which manages several international airports. These partnerships are vital for training, operations, and sharing best practices.
How is the airport adapting to technological and digital advancements to improve services?
Technology is key to improving the passenger experience. We aim to cut down on wait times during busy hours using technology. We’ve also designed the airport to make the overall experience more enjoyable, from shops to cafes, based on passenger feedback and research.
Could you tell us a bit about the airport’s role in freight transportation?
Air cargo is very important for St. Martin, especially for fresh goods like meats, fish, and produce, which are critical for local restaurants. We have direct cargo flights from Europe and the U.S., and there's room for growth in this sector, not only for St. Martin but for the whole region.
Can you tell us about the environmental sustainability initiatives?
One of our main projects for 2025 is becoming independent from regular utility services. We plan to install a solar farm on top of a new canopy to provide energy. Additionally, we aim to electrify all airport vehicles by 2030, as part of our broader environmental goals.
How does the airport support the local community through corporate social responsibility?
As a corporate citizen, we focus on supporting local initiatives, from education to sports. We want to be a positive presence on the island and give back to the community through various programs.
Finally, what message would you give to Newsweek readers considering Sint Maarten for investment or tourism?
We've invested $200 million in this new terminal as a signal that we are open for business. Sint Maarten is not only a great place to visit but also a solid destination for investments, whether in villas or businesses. It's a wonderful place to experience, and we’re excited to share it with the world.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
I just want to thank all the stakeholders, particularly the Dutch government and the people of St. Martin, for their support in making this project a reality. It’s been a long journey, but we’ve reached an important milestone.
