Private aircraft customers at Saint Martin’s Princess Juliana International Airport (TNCM) will see an upgrade in FBO facilities as the airport authority turns its redundant temporary arrival facility (TAF) into a general aviation terminal (GAT). The 7,500-sq-ft TAF was built to handle commercial operations after TNCM’s terminal was ravaged by Hurricane Irma in 2017. The main terminal took seven years to restore, finally fully opening late last year.
ExecuJet and Signature Aviation, which provide business aviation services at TNCM, are based in small temporary trailer-like structures on the field. They have long negotiated with the airport authority to build new FBOs or even a shared GAT, befitting the airport’s status as one of the major Caribbean gateways for the private jet and yacht set. The two companies are preparing for the move into the TAF facility, which is undergoing renovation. It is set to reopen as a GAT in August.
Each service provider will occupy approximately 1,200 sq ft within the terminal, with the remaining shared space housing border control, customs, and the airport authority security screening area. Restrooms in the arrival and departure area in the GAT will be shared by the FBOs as well. ExecuJet received a 10-year lease for the facility, which will be managed and operated by the airport. Signature expects to sign a similar term agreement.
“This is a transformative step, not only for ExecuJet, but for private aviation in the region,” said Gary Forster, managing director of ExecuJet Caribbean. “Saint Martin’s central location makes it a vital hub for visiting aircraft, technical stopovers, and regional transit.”
TNCM is also the primary stepping stone for private jet passengers heading to the ultra-luxe enclave of Saint Barthélemy (St. Barts), which—due to the small size and short runway of its airport—is best suited for the single-engine turboprop flights that run continuously between the two islands.
“Saint Martin is one of the most unique destinations within both the Caribbean and Signature’s global network, highlighted by rich culture, a vibrant culinary scene, and scenic beaches,” added Derek DeCross, Signature’s chief commercial officer. “As we transition to a new facility, we’ll continue to elevate each moment for our guests with world-class hospitality, as well as added amenities and infrastructure.”