Princess Juliana International Airport: SXM's Top Attraction

Located on the scenic Caribbean island of Sint Maarten, Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) is more than just a gateway to paradise. It’s an iconic attraction for its thrilling proximity to Maho Beach, where tourists watch planes land dramatically close to the beach. This unique spectacle, combined with the airport's recent upgrades, makes the experience of arriving at or departing from Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten a sensational adventure.

The wonders of Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten

A gateway like no other

Princess Juliana International Airport and Maho Beach in St. Maarten are the island's number one tourist attraction, offering an iconic spectacle found nowhere else in the world. This unique phenomenon, where planes fly just above beachgoers, has put St. Maarten on the map, transforming it into one of the top destinations in the Caribbean.

Iconic airplane landings over Maho Beach

One of the most exhilarating attractions of Princess Juliana International Airport in Sint Maarten is Maho Beach. Located at the edge of the runway, Maho Beach offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience: the chance to see giant passenger planes flying mere meters above as they approach the runway.

Tourists can feel the roar of the jet engines of departing planes and capture stunning photos of aircrafts seemingly skimming the turquoise waters. The proximity of Maho Beach to the airport has cemented its status as a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike​​. Princess Juliana International Airport photos and videos with Maho Beach are spread all over the internet.

The jet blast experience

At Maho Beach, adrenalin junkies may hold onto the airport fence as planes take off just a few feets away, experiencing powerful jet blasts that send sand and beachgoers flying. This adrenaline-pumping activity has become a must-try for adventurous visitors, adding to the allure of St. Maarten's iconic attraction. Extra caution must be excercised as the jet blast has caused several injuries and even a death over the years.

Plane spotting at Princess Juliana International Airport

There are two plane spotting spots to take the best photos of aircrafts landing at Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten. The first one is at Maho Beach (obviously) where the most popular photos were taken. You can station yourself at Sunset Beach Bar where you can listen to the transmission between the planes and the control tower.

The second plane spotting spot is on the other end of the runway, or even better, if you have a zoom lens, you can take amazing photos of departing planes from Cole Bay hill.

St. Maarten Airport facts and statistics

Princess Juliana International Airport handles a significant amount of air traffic. It has a single runway long enough to accommodate large aircrafts such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A340. The airport in numbers:

• Airport Code: IATA Code: SXM, ICAO Code: TNCM
• Website: Princess Juliana International Airport
• Airport Arrivals: Live arrivals schedule
• Airport Departures: Live departures schedule
• Phone Number: +1 721-546-7777
• Owner: Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company N.V.
• Elevation: 13 feet (4 meters) above sea level
• Coordinates: 18°02′27″N 63°06′35″W
• Annual Passengers: Approximately 2.5 million
• Location: Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten
• Runway: Numbered 10/28, Length: 7,546 feet (2,300 meters) Width: 148 feet (45 meters)
• Terminal Size: 30,500 square meters (328,000 square feet)
• Check-in Desks: 46
• Transit Desks: 10
• Boarding Gates: 13

Webcam of Princess Juliana International Airport

St. Maarten Airport history

Princess Juliana International Airport opened in 1943 as a military airstrip. It was later transformed into a civilian airport in 1944. The airport was named after Juliana of the Netherlands, who was a crown princess at the time of the airport’s inauguration. Over the decades, it has evolved into a major international airport, renowned for its unique and thrilling approach over Maho Beach, which has become one of the top things to see in St. Maarten, a major attraction of tourism.

The airport has seen multiple phases of modernization. A significant three-phased masterplan was commissioned in 1997 to handle increased passenger traffic and expected future growth. It included runway widening, strengthening taxiways, upgrading the old terminal, construction of a new terminal, a radar facility, and a modern air traffic control tower.

Concorde landing in St. Maarten

The Concorde’s visits to Saint-Martin were legendary. The first, in 1981, marked a grand promotion for a new tourist complex, turning heads with its sleek design and supersonic speed. Eight years later, the Concorde returned, this time carrying French President François Mitterrand, cementing the island's status as a top-tier destination. These iconic landings not only dazzled spectators but also significantly boosted Saint-Martin’s allure in aviation and tourism.

The destruction of Hurricane Irma in 2017

Hurricane Irma, a category 5 storm, which struck on September 6, 2017, caused extensive damage to Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Martin. The terminal was severely damaged, including collapsed jet bridges and a runway covered in sand and debris, which significantly disrupted airport operations. The reconstruction of the airport became a critical priority due to its importance for the island's tourism-driven economy.

Recent upgrades in 2025: A modern marvel

In recent years, Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten has undergone significant upgrades, enhancing its facilities and services. The redevelopment project, prompted by the devastation of Hurricane Irma in 2017, aimed to restore and improve the airport's infrastructure.

The upgrades introduce a vibrant atmosphere and enhanced passenger experience, featuring advanced technology and a variety of retail and dining options. The departure hall, spanning over 10,000 square meters, is designed to accommodate 2.5 million annual passengers with state-of-the-art screening and emigration processes. The check-in area includes hybrid self-bag drops for oversized luggage, offering flexibility for future growth​​.

The next phase, set for completion by early-2025, will focus on an upgraded arrival hall with improved baggage handling, immigration, and customs processes. This phased approach aims to position SXM as a world-class airport, enhancing convenience, comfort, and efficiency for travelers in the Caribbean region​​.

Accidents and incidents at Princess Juliana International Airport

1. Air Guadeloupe Flight (1972): On 21 December 1972, a De Havilland Canada Twin Otter operated by Air Guadeloupe on behalf of Air France crashed into the ocean near Sint Maarten during a night flight from Guadeloupe. Tragically, all 11 passengers and both pilots on board lost their lives in this accident​​.
2. Skyway Enterprises Flight 7101 (2014): On 29 October 2014, Skyway Enterprises Flight 7101, a Shorts SD-360 aircraft flying on behalf of FedEx, crashed into the ocean 2 nautical miles southwest of the airport. The crash resulted in the deaths of both pilots. The investigation revealed that the pilot experienced a night-time somatogravic illusion after retracting the flaps, causing an unintended pitch down into the sea​​.
3. Caribbean Airlines Flight 457 (2017): On 12 July 2017, Caribbean Airlines Flight 457, a Boeing 737-800, was taking off from runway 10 when the jet blast from its engines knocked over a woman from New Zealand. She sustained serious injuries and was later pronounced dead at the hospital. This incident underscored the dangers associated with the proximity of Maho Beach to the runway​​.

Princess Juliana International Airport in popular culture

1. Microsoft Flight Simulator X: Princess Juliana International Airport is prominently featured in the free demo version of Microsoft Flight Simulator X. In the full version of the game, it is the destination for the "Caribbean Landing" mission, where players are challenged to land a Bombardier CRJ-700 on runway 10. This mission captures the thrilling and unique landing experience that the airport is famous for​​.
2. Most Extreme Airports: The History Channel's "Most Extreme Airports" ranks Princess Juliana International Airport as the fourth-most dangerous in the world due to its short runway and proximity to Maho Beach. These thrilling landings and takeoffs attract aviation enthusiasts from around the globe.

Unique aircrafts at Princess Juliana Airport

Facilities and services at PJIA

Princess Juliana International Airport in Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten, offers a seamless travel experience with its spacious, contemporary terminal. Travelers can enjoy a variety of duty-free shops and diverse dining options.

Shops at Sint Maarten Airport

• AMA Duty Free
• Dutch Delight
• Hot Look
• ILTT Duty Free store
• Penha Perfumes
• Shipwreck Shop
• The Gouda Liquor Store

Restaurants and bars

• Aunt Clara
• Domino's Pizza
• Hurricane Bar
• Le Bistro by Bacchus
• Subway
• Primavera Wholesome Bakery

Parking facilities

The airport provides ample parking with designated areas for public use, car rentals, and staff. The public parking area has 323 spaces, car rentals have 60 spaces, and there are 290 spaces for staff.

Parking rates:

• $2 per half-hour
• $30 for a day pass
• $50 for lost ticket

Parking in pick-up and drop-off zones is prohibited, and unauthorized vehicles may be towed​.

Transport services

PJIA offers comprehensive transportation services to ensure convenient travel for all passengers. Car rental options include well-known brands such as:

• Hertz
• Alamo
• Avis
• Budget
• Europcar​

Additional services include VIP transport, wheelchair-accessible transportation, and a dedicated taxi service provided by the Airport Taxi Association​​.

Security information

PJIA features a state-of-the-art Air Traffic Control Tower, Category 9 Fire and Rescue Service, and a Centralized Pre-screening area. The airport follows strict international security measures, including the prohibition of certain items in cabin baggage. Passengers should allow extra time for security screenings and adhere to guidelines for carrying liquids and gels​​.

How to get to Princess Juliana International Airport?

Princess Juliana International Airport is conveniently located in Simpson Bay, on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. It can be easily reached by driving on the main road, also called Airport Road.

Taking a bus to St. Maarten airport

Local buses stop in front of the airport. If you are coming from Marigot or Philipsburg, you have to take the bus that's heading to Maho Beach or Mullet Bay. If you are coming from Cupecoy, then take the bus heading to Marigot or Philipsburg. The bus to PJIA will cost you anywhere between $1-3 USD per person. There is no bus from Oyster Pond, Dawn Beach and Grand Case.

Taxi rates to Princess Juliana International Airport (approximate):

• $10-15 USD from Maho Beach and Simpson Bay
• $15-20 USD from Cole Bay
• $30 USD from Little Bay
• $30 USD from Marigot
• $35 USD from Philipsburg
• $40 USD from Grand Case
• $50 USD from Oyster Pond / Dawn Beach

Connectivity and accessibility

As the primary airport serving Sint Maarten, PJIA connects the island to numerous international destinations. Major airlines operate flights to and from key cities in North America, Europe, and other Caribbean islands. This extensive connectivity makes it easy for travelers to reach the vibrant capital of Philipsburg and other attractions on the island​.

List of airlines serving Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA):

Princess Juliana International Airport review

Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten is not just a point of transit; it’s a destination brimming with excitement and charm. The thrill of planes landing over Maho Beach, the modern facilities, and the island’s natural beauty create an unparalleled travel experience.

Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a beach lover, or a traveler seeking adventure, the airport in Sint Maarten, Netherlands Antilles, offers something truly special. Make sure to add the Saint Maarten airport beach to your bucket list for an unforgettable Caribbean adventure.