Business aviation operators are being urged to submit parking reservations and travel details as early as possible to avoid operational challenges at the Sint Maarten airport – TNCM. With a growing number of passengers entering TNCM and aircraft operating during limited daylight hours, advance planning is no longer optional—it’s essential.
Early Reservations: Key to Coordination
Operators are encouraged to send preliminary parking reservation requests even if all details are not finalized. There are no cancellation fees in Sint Maarten, so schedule changes and cancellations can be made without penalty. Please note that the parking requests are subject to availability as slot allocation will be put into place during their peak season, specifically during the months of December and January. Requesting parking early is critical for Part 135 operations. To operators who are awaiting their customer’s final decision. Our partner, ExecuJet, states that basic preliminary schedules help airport staff coordinate arrivals and manage ramp capacity efficiently.
Even without the specified aircraft, simply knowing the planned trip details helps the airport prepare for future aircraft movements. All overnight aircraft require reservations in advance, and it is suggested operators do not submit last-minute requests 24-48 hours prior to arrival. This avoidable action may result in the rejection of proposed parking request or foreseeable operational delays. Larger aircraft, such as the Global 7500, will have limited space availability.
What Information Should Be Shared
Advance information should include:
- Date(s) of arrival and departure
- Expected arrival and departure times
- Aircraft type
Passenger and crew details as well as flight origin are not required upfront, allowing operators to provide the most critical details without unnecessary delays.
Connecting Flights: Avoiding Last-Minute Hassles
If passengers are connecting through Sint Maarten, TNCM, to a commercial flight, we encourage sharing this information with the FBO ahead of the arrival. Providing commercial flight details in advance ensures smooth coordination, seamless transitions and avoids unnecessary hassles.
Peak Arrival Times – A Growing Challenge
Historical data has shown that arrivals between 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM are preferred for the operator. While it is a convenient travel schedule, this time can create airspace congestion, ramp crowding, and even ground stops. During busier periods, ground stops affect both commercial and general aviation aircraft for lengthy periods of time
Encouraging Early Arrivals
To ease congestion, operators are being asked encouraged to arrive between 7:00 AM and to reward early arrivals. These measures improve operational efficiency and enhance the passenger experience.
Coordinated Efforts Are Essential
Operators unable to arrive in the early window should remain on the ground until a slot is available to prevent congestion. The combination of early private-operator arrivals and improved coordination with commercial airlines is critical to ensuring seamless operations.
Conclusion
The key takeaway is clear: early planning saves time, prevents congestion, and ensures passenger safety & comfort.
By submitting preliminary reservations, providing arrival and connecting details, and coordinating with airport authorities, operators can avoid last-minute operational delays and enjoy smooth, efficient operations in some of the busiest and most scenic airports in the Caribbean.-
Crystal Kubeczka
Crystal Kubeczka is the President and CEO of Paragon Aviation Group, a global network of elite independently owned FBOs. She began her aviation career as a licensed dispatcher for Part 135/91 operations. Her experience includes leadership roles at Air Routing International, FlightSafety International, and UAS International Trip Support. Crystal also serves on the NBAA IOC Planning Committee and the Paragon Advisory Board.
She brings deep expertise in aviation strategy, relationship building, and market growth.
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