Princess Juliana International Airport is the main airport on the Caribbean island of Sint Maarten. It is named after Princess Juliana of the Netherlands, who reigned from 1948 to 1980. The airport is known for its proximity to the beach, where planes fly low over sunbathers as they land on the runway. But when was Princess Juliana International Airport established? Let’s take a look at the early history of aviation in the Netherlands and the planning and construction of the airport.
Early history of aviation in the Netherlands
The first powered flight in the Netherlands took place in 1909, when Anthony Fokker flew a plane he had designed and built himself. In the years that followed, aviation developed rapidly in the country, with Dutch pilots making significant contributions to the field. During World War II, the Netherlands was occupied by Nazi Germany, and many Dutch pilots joined the Royal Air Force in the United Kingdom to continue fighting against the Germans.
Planning for a new airport
After the war, the Dutch government recognized the need for a new airport to serve the growing demand for air travel. A location was chosen on the island of Sint Maarten, which was then part of the Netherlands Antilles. The airport would be named after Princess Juliana, who had spent time on the island during the war and had become popular with the local population.
Construction of the airport
Construction of the airport began in 1942 and was completed in 1943. The airport was built by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, who also constructed the runway and other facilities. The airport was initially used for military purposes, but plans were made to develop it into a commercial airport.
Opening of the airport
Princess Juliana International Airport was officially opened on March 10, 1943, by Princess Juliana herself. The airport was initially used by the Dutch airline KLM, which operated flights to and from the Netherlands. The airport quickly became popular with tourists, thanks to its location and the warm climate of the Caribbean.
First commercial flights
The first commercial flight from Princess Juliana International Airport took place in 1946, when KLM began operating a weekly service to Curaçao. In the years that followed, other airlines began using the airport, and it became an important hub for travel between the Caribbean and North America.
Expansion and modernization
Over the years, Princess Juliana International Airport has undergone several expansions and modernizations to keep up with the growing demand for air travel. In 1964, a new terminal building was constructed, and in 1985, the runway was extended to its current length of 7,546 feet. In 2017, the airport was severely damaged by Hurricane Irma, and extensive repairs were needed to bring it back to full operation.
Major events at the airport
Princess Juliana International Airport has hosted several major events over the years, including visits by the Queen of the Netherlands and the President of the United States. The airport has also been the site of several aviation accidents, including a crash in 1970 that killed 23 people.
Economic impact of the airport
Princess Juliana International Airport is a major contributor to the economy of Sint Maarten, providing jobs and generating revenue through tourism and other activities. The airport is also an important link between the island and the rest of the world, facilitating trade and commerce.
Future plans and developments
Princess Juliana International Airport is currently undergoing a major renovation and expansion project, which includes the construction of a new terminal building and other facilities. The project is expected to be completed in 2021, and will further enhance the airport’s capacity and capabilities.
Conclusion
Princess Juliana International Airport has a rich history and has played an important role in the development of aviation in the Netherlands and the Caribbean. From its beginnings as a military airfield to its current status as a modern, international airport, Princess Juliana International Airport has been a hub of activity and a symbol of progress and innovation.
References
- "History." Princess Juliana International Airport.
- "Princess Juliana International Airport." World History Encyclopedia.
- "Princess Juliana International Airport." Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Princess_Juliana_International_Airport
