SXM AIRPORT--Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) marked St. Maarten Day on Wednesday, November 11, with live steelpan music, traditional Johnny cakes, cultural displays and activities designed to share the island's heritage with arriving and departing passengers, airport employees and members of the community.
Throughout the afternoon, travelers and airport personnel were treated to live steelpan performances, freshly prepared Johnny cakes and fruit punch served by women dressed in traditional cultural attire. The celebration provided international visitors with an introduction to St. Maarten's traditions while allowing residents and airport workers to participate in the national observance.
The airport also recognized employees and partners who remained on duty during the public holiday, ensuring that those responsible for maintaining airport operations could participate in the festivities.
The celebration extended outside the terminal, where the airport building was illuminated in the red, white and blue colors of the St. Maarten flag. A large illuminated flag was also displayed outside, providing a photo opportunity for passengers and visitors.
According to airport management, the activities were intended to highlight the airport's role not only as an international transportation hub but also as an important point of contact between St. Maarten and visitors from around the world.
Princess Juliana International Airport Chief Executive Officer Michael Cleaver emphasized the relationship between the airport and the community it serves.
"We often speak about connecting Sint Maarten to the rest of the world, but what makes that connection meaningful is the island and the people behind it," Cleaver said.
"We are proud of our airport, but even prouder of the community it serves. This is their airport. Sint Maarten Day is an opportunity to celebrate that sense of belonging and to share a piece of our history and culture with the thousands of people who travel through our doors. We want visitors to remember not only the beauty of Sint Maarten, but also the warmth of its people."
Airport management noted that, as one of the first places international visitors encounter upon arrival and one of the last they experience before departure, PJIA has an opportunity to promote awareness of St. Maarten's history, traditions and cultural identity.
The airport said the observance was also intended to recognize the generations who have contributed to the island's development and the cultural traditions that continue to connect its communities.
Princess Juliana International Airport is one of the largest employers on St. Maarten, with more than 330 direct employees. Its wider airport community includes more than 1,700 people working for airline partners, concessionaires and service providers.
In addition to serving St. Maarten, the airport provides regional connections to neighboring destinations, including Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barthélemy, Anguilla, Dominica, Nevis and Tortola.
Airport management expressed appreciation to the employees, partners, travelers and community members who participated in the St. Maarten Day activities and contributed to the celebration.
