Simpson Bay:--- Flags representing the different countries or territories serviced by the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) were flying again proudly along the final approach of the Airport Boulevard to the Terminal Building.
The 33 flags were first mounted at the end of 2011 on light poles that arch around the lagoon-side road leading to the airport, starting with the St. Maarten flag in the area of WINAIR offices, and moving on up to the poles opposite the FBO facilities.
The flags represent islands of the now defunct Netherlands Antilles (St. Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao), the hub islands of Anguilla, and St. Barths, as well as other Caribbean islands.
Destinations in Central and South America (e.g. Panama, Brazil, Argentina), the USA and Canada as well as Europe, are also represented.
"The flags are not a mere decoration," said Regina LaBega, managing director of the airport, "but a visual reminder of the international character of the airport and the diverse origins of the people that use it."
Wear and tear made it necessary to remove the previous flags and replace them with larger and more weather-resistant ones.
"As we celebrate our 70th anniversary, it is important that we acknowledge the destinations we serve through the symbol of their flags," LaBega added.
