Winair Increasing Flight Connectivity from Barbados, St. Lucia and St. Vincent to SXM

New Winair Flights

According to the Curacao Chronicle, WinAir just released its updated winter schedule for the upcoming season. Air connectivity to and from St. Maarten continue to increase as WinAir and other airlines are increasing flights to and from Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). 

Starting on November 15th, 2024, WinAir will operate six flights per week between Sint Maarten and Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) in Barbados. The airline will also fly twice weekly from Barbados to Saint Lucia, twice weekly to Martinique, and three times a week to Dominica. 

From SXM, WinAir will also fly six times a week to George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU) in Saint Lucia, connecting the island with three flights to and from Dominica and two weekly flights to Barbados. The airline will also operate two flights per week between Sint Maarten and Argyle International Airport (SVD) in Saint Vincent, and once weekly between Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent. 

“The additions to our growing network offer passengers more options and connections within the Caribbean,” said WinAir. The new routes will be serviced by ATR42-500 aircraft. 

Enhanced Connectivity

The introduction of Winair’s new flights to and from St. Maarten marks a notable expansion in Caribbean regional connectivity. For St. Maarten, these new routes are more than just additions to the island’s flight network; it is a strategic move that strengthens its position as a central hub in the Caribbean. Increased air traffic will likely offer a boost to the tourism sector, as travelers from St. Vincent and beyond gain easier access to the island’s attractions, luxury accommodations, and vibrant cultural experiences.

Economic Benefits for St. Maarten

The new flights are expected to deliver several economic benefits to St. Maarten. Firstly, improved connectivity typically translates into increased tourist arrivals. As more travelers visit St. Maarten, local businesses—ranging from restaurants and shops to night clubs and more — stand to gain from additional consumer spending. A sizable boost to tourism can drive job creation and contribute to the overall economic vitality of the island.

Moreover, with more visitors arriving from Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and other regional destinations, St. Maarten’s hospitality sector is likely to experience an uptick. Hotels, resorts, and rental properties can anticipate higher occupancy rates, leading to increased revenue and profitability. For property owners, this surge in demand presents a prime opportunity to capitalize on rental income.