SINT MAARTEN (SIMPSON BAY-AIRPORT) — Every aircraft that arrives safely in Sint Maarten has already completed the most critical parts of its journey long before passengers step into the terminal. Behind the scenes, Air Traffic Controllers coordinate every arrival and departure with precision not only in Sint Maarten but in surrounding islands, ensuring aircrafts moves safely and efficiently through one of the Caribbean's busiest airspaces. At Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA), that responsibility begins with investing in the next generation.
Nine Air Traffic Services (ATS) trainees achieved Flight Data Operator (FDO) certification, marking an important milestone in their careers toward becoming fully certified Air Traffic Controllers. The newly certified Flight Data Operators are Mr. Monzon Bender, Ms. Ejanee Brown, Mr. Simeon Brooks, Mr. N'Kenzi Williams, Ms. Rachelle Barrett, Mr. Edwin der Weer, Ms. Kimoya Beckford, Mr. Tishawndro Richardson and Mr. Jaheel Fleming.
While they continue to broaden their Air Traffic Control training, their certification enables them to independently perform Flight Data Operator duties, an essential function within the control tower supporting the safe and efficient movement of aircraft while gathering and strengthening their operational experience required to become a licenced Air traffic controller.
To recognize this important achievement, PJIA hosted a certification ceremony attended by members of the Managing Board, ATS Management, instructors and colleagues.
"Every aircraft that arrives or departs Princess Juliana International Airport relies on highly trained professionals working behind the scenes," said Michael Cleaver, Chief Executive Officer of Princess Juliana International Airport. "Investing in local aviation talent is one of the most important investments we make. These trainees represent the future of Air Traffic Services in Sint Maarten and today's milestone reflects our long-term commitment to safety, operational excellence and developing aviation professionals right here at home."
Certificates were presented by Michael Cleaver, Emile Levons, Richard van Dinter, Interim Director of Air Traffic Services, and Duncan van Heyningen, Manager ATS Training & Development.
Building Sint Maarten's Aviation Academy
Beyond celebrating the achievements of these nine dedicated trainees, the certification represents a broader transformation taking place within PJIA's Air Traffic Services Division. For many years, aspiring Air Traffic Controllers depend on overseas training facilities in Curaçao and Trinidad. Air Traffic Controllers are required to obtain Flight Data Operator (FDO) certification as part of their training. Traditionally, this certification has only been available overseas and involves an intensive two-year training program. Today, PJIA is providing that expertise in Sint Maarten through the development of the PJIA Aviation Training Academy (PATA).
The airport has invested in a dedicated training facility, including modern classrooms and simulator facilities creating the foundation for a sustainable aviation training program that allows future professionals to receive requisite training in Sint Maarten.
The vision extends beyond Sint Maarten. As the Academy’s capacity continues to grow, PJIA will make its training programs available to aviation professionals from neighbouring islands. Positioning Sint Maarten as a regional training centre for Air Traffic Services and the wider aviation industry. By bringing aviation training closer to home, PJIA can strengthen our knowledge, expertise and operational capacity across the region while reducing dependence and costs on overseas training.
Building local and regional training capacity strengthens operational continuity, creating new opportunities for Sint Maarten’s future aviation workforce while supports the development of aviation professionals throughout the Caribbean. “This certification is much more than completing another training module,” said Richard van Dinter, Interim Director of Air Traffic Services. “It reflects months of dedication, discipline and teamwork. Every trainee has demonstrated the commitment required to continue toward becoming an Air Traffic Controller, and we are proud to support them throughout that journey. At the same time, we are rebuilding something much larger: the future of Air Traffic Services training in Sint Maarten and the wider region.”
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, PJIA remains committed to developing local talent and investing in the people who connect us to the world. The certification of these nine Flight Data Operators represents another important step in preparing the next generation of Air Traffic Controllers to safely guide aircraft through Sint Maarten’s skies, while establishing the island as a future centre for aviation training in the Caribbean.
