That first-quarter arrivals at Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) topped those of the same period in 2024 by 10.8% (see related story) obviously spells good news. It is welcome particularly due to concern that uncertainties during the first few months of US President Donald Trump’s term in office would negatively impact travel from that dominant stay-over visitors market.
North America still provided the biggest share with 67%, of which the US 54% and Canada 13%, while another 25% came from Europe. The airport projects 1.8 million incoming passengers in total for the entire year.
Regular publication of these vital figures for the island’s tourism economy had been sorely lacking, certainly when compared to similar destinations. Mention was made of “a new era in immigration monitoring and air traffic intelligence” indicating that this problem has now become a thing of the past.
However, it is already the end of July, the first month of the third quarter, and the question may rightfully be asked what took so long. After all, such statistics can be of even greater value when issued in a more timely manner.
If accurate passenger data are indeed instantly recorded with use of the e-Gates and automated passports kiosks, that should be possible. It translates to frequent, current updates and informed decision-making.
