PJIAE and St. Maarten Airlines And Handlers Association Strengthen Collaboration Ahead Of 2026/2027 High Season.

pjiaehandlers16102026Simpson Bay:---  As Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) prepares for an anticipated increase in passenger traffic during the upcoming 2026/2027 high season, airport management and representatives of the St. Maarten Airline Handlers Association (SAHA) recently met to review operational priorities, address ongoing challenges and identify areas for improvement.

The meeting brought together SAHA President Patrick Stevens, Vice President June Douglas and PJIA's leadership and operational teams to discuss key matters affecting airport efficiency, airline operations and the overall passenger experience.

Key Operational Priorities

Discussions covered several operational areas, including airline schedules, self-service facilities, gate allocation, aircraft fuelling challenges, airport signage, curbside check-in, parking arrangements and Air Traffic Services.

Participants focused on practical solutions to existing operational challenges and improving coordination among airport departments, airlines, and ground handling partners. With increased flight activity expected during the high season, participants emphasized the need for timely communication, effective resource planning and a coordinated approach to managing peak travel periods.

The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange feedback on current procedures and explore adjustments to improve passenger flow, optimize airport resources, and support the efficient handling of aircraft operations.

A Coordinated Approach to Airport Operations

Both PJIA and SAHA acknowledged the importance of maintaining regular dialogue to address operational matters and ensure the needs of airlines, passengers, and other airport stakeholders are considered.

Representing PJIA were Chief Executive Officer Mr. Cleaver, Chief Operating Officer Emile Levons, Director of Operations Michael Peters, Airside Operations Manager Deshawn York and members of the airport's operational team. Orvelle Hughes, Station Manager of Menzies Aviation Sint Maarten, also participated in the discussions.

Emphasizing the importance of operational readiness and teamwork ahead of the upcoming high season,  CEO Mr. Cleaver stated:

“As we prepare for another busy high season, teamwork and coordination across all airport partners remain essential to ensuring smooth operations. I also want to sincerely thank our staff for their continued dedication and support. Even under pressure, they consistently demonstrate the commitment and professionalism needed to keep our airport running efficiently.”

As preparations for the 2026/2027 high season progress, PJIA remains committed to working closely with its airline and ground handling partners to support efficient airport operations, improve service delivery and provide a positive travel experience for passengers arriving in and departing from Sint Maarten.

Public invited to choose among 10 finalists for Saint-Martin Flag.

sxmflagvote16102026SAINT-MARTIN:--- The public has until Wednesday, October 21, at noon to vote for its preferred design in the My Saint-Martin Flag competition, as the territory moves toward selecting a flag for official adoption.

The consultative vote opened on October 14, with 10 finalist designs available at www.mysaintmartinflag.com. Participation is open to everyone, with no age limit, according to the Collectivité de Saint-Martin.

The competition, launched in August, attracted 42 submissions before entries closed on September 30. After the Cultural Affairs Department reviewed eligibility, 36 designs qualified for consideration by the jury.

The committee assigned each eligible entry an anonymous identification number before submitting it for assessment. The finalists are also displayed under those numbers during the public voting phase.

The jury met on October 10 to select the 10 finalists. Its membership brought together representatives of the Collectivité, cultural identity, neighborhood councils, youth, business, sports and graphic design.

The jury assessed entries against five criteria set out in the competition brief: identity, originality, graphic quality, feasibility, and the accompanying statement explaining the designer’s intentions.

The Collectivité thanked those who submitted designs, shared competition information, and encouraged others to participate. It described the public vote as an opportunity for the population to express its preference and contribute to a historic moment for Saint-Martin.

Public Vote Forms Part of Final Selection

The public ballot is one stage in the selection process. Once voting closes, the three finalists with the highest combined scores from the jury’s assessment and the public vote will be invited to a verification discussion with the jury.

An administrative phase will follow to protect the winning flag design and complete the necessary documentation.

The Territorial Council will then vote on the flag's official adoption. The project timetable lists December 7, 2026, as the date for the flag’s official installation.

Members of the public wishing to participate should review the 10 proposals and cast their vote before noon, Saint-Martin time, on October 21.

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