PHILIPSBURG:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company (PJIAE N.V.), in collaboration with the Immigration and Border Protection Services (IBPS) under the Ministry of Justice and the Department of Statistics (STAT), has reported a significant 10.8% rise in passenger arrivals during the first quarter of 2025. The milestone coincides with the successful implementation of automated systems for collecting immigration data.
From January to March 2025, PJIAE recorded 256,923 inbound passengers, compared to 231,815 during the same period in 2024. Combined with departures, total passenger movements reached 533,990, reflecting a steady recovery and growth trajectory. Notably, 67% of arriving travelers hailed from North America, with the United States accounting for 54% and Canada for 13%. Europeans represented 25% of arrivals.
This achievement follows the November 2024 launch of automated border control (ABC) e-Gates and passport kiosks at PJIAE, coinciding with the reopening of the modernized Arrival Hall. “The automation of immigration data transforms how we assess, plan, and respond to travelers,” stated Mr. Erling Hoeve, Policy Advisor and Program Manager for Border Security Innovation at the Ministry of Justice. “With seamless digital integration, St. Maarten sets a benchmark in border security innovation, ensuring not only efficiency but also safety at our ports of entry.”
Before automation, immigration relied on manual data entry supported by arrival manifests from airlines. The new Radex border control system, fully compliant with GDPR standards, now enables instantaneous, accurate, and secure data collection. This innovation not only supports crowd management but also enhances the passenger experience with faster processing times.
“This leap in automation is not just about technology—it’s about capacity, transparency, and national security,” said Mr. Damien Schmidt, Digitization Project Coordinator at PJIAE. “Our collaboration with the Ministries of Justice and Tourism has allowed us to create an intelligent, future-ready airport system.”
The sturdy year-to-date performance builds on strong momentum from late 2024, following critical upgrades to PJIAE’s terminal infrastructure. Serving as a vital hub for the region, PJIAE plays a key role in connecting neighboring islands such as Saba, Anguilla, and St. Barth’s.
By focusing on innovation, collaboration, and operational excellence, PJIAE is poised to sustain its projected annual passenger volume of 1.8 million for 2025, reinforcing its position as a leader in the Caribbean travel sector.
