What is the current state of the air transport sector in Saint-Barthélemy, its challenges, and opportunities?
The current state of the air transport sector is generally good. Admittedly, we are no longer at the activity levels seen in 2022 and early 2023, after the COVID-19 pandemic, with the so-called "revenge travel," as most destinations popular with customers reopened worldwide. We are thus returning to levels closer to what we experienced between 2016 and 2019, which were still strong in terms of passenger traffic and number of flight movements. Therefore, traffic and outlook for the upcoming high season are reassuring and well-positioned.
Saint-Barthélemy-Rémy-de-Haenen Airport represents 40 companies, over 200 direct jobs, and exceptional performance at the scale of French airports. Can you provide us with a brief presentation of the airport and some key figures?
As you mentioned, it is a local terminal, yet it generates a highly dynamic level of activity compared to French airports in the Antilles-Guyane region and even internationally. We handle 40,000 aircraft movements annually, have around 40 companies operating, and employ 200 staff. So, yes, it’s a small but impactful operation, with significant economic benefits for the island due to the purchasing power of the passengers using the airport, which positively impacts the territory both directly and indirectly.
Are there any planned projects for expanding or improving the capacity and efficiency of the airport?
There are no major infrastructure expansion projects, aside from maintaining and enhancing existing facilities. Our focus is on keeping operations safe and efficient, responding to air traffic regulation and safety challenges. We’re not planning to extend the runway. Rather, we aim to regulate flight flows, as we sometimes exceed capacity in certain time slots. This approach allows us to safely accommodate expected traffic levels while preserving operational stability and the business climate.
How does the Saint-Barthélemy Airport contribute to the economic and commercial development of Saint-Barthélemy?
Around 90% of our traffic is commercial, with 70% being international, primarily from the regional hubs of Sint Maarten-Princess Juliana International Airport and Puerto Rico, with 70% of clients coming from the U.S. Our robust charter activity also indicates high spending power among our passengers, differing significantly from ferry passengers between Saint-Martin and Gustavia. This economic impact is reflected through local tourism, as luxury hotels and other establishments enhance the region's appeal.
How many passenger arrivals per year?
We’re currently handling about 203,000 passengers per year. What limits us is primarily the number of aircraft movements. Last year, we recorded more than 41,000 movements, which is significant for a 646-meter-long runway with limited parking. Peak daily movements during high season can average around 150 flights per day, with spikes going up to 200 or even 250 movements, with an historical 323 movements recorded for the NYE 2023, particularly during busy periods like post-New Year. Managing these flows is challenging given our limited parking capacity.
Could you give us an overview of the partnerships and international relationships between the Saint Barthélemy Airport and other airports?
The aviation industry involves a lot of collaboration, with regular inter-airport meetings, particularly for seasonal preparations and reviews. We maintain “letters of agreement” with key partners like the Sint Maarten-Princess Juliana International Airport hub, San Juan, Guadeloupe, Antigua, and more, which ensure coordinated operations and traffic flow management.
How is the airport adapting to technological and digital advancements to improve its services and competitiveness?
Over the past few years, we’ve prioritized modern tools to enhance productivity. This includes ground operation electrification, improved flight management interfaces, and other digital initiatives that keep us competitive and aligned with larger airports.
What is your vision for the future of Saint Barthélemy Airport, and what are your medium- and long-term strategic priorities?
Our vision is to sustain traffic growth while maintaining a safe and business-friendly operational climate. Managing high traffic volumes while ensuring operational security is critical. Too much focus on security can hinder business operations, and insufficient security risks incidents. Achieving this balance is our top priority.
What is your final message to Newsweek readers considering Saint Barthélemy as a potential investment and/or tourism destination?
Saint-Barthélemy’s unique environment, high standards, and distinctive atmosphere make it attractive to both investors and tourists.
