PJIA builds Aviation Training Academy as nine ATS trainees earn FDO certification

SXM AIRPORT--Princess Juliana International Airport is developing the PJIA Aviation Training Academy, an initiative intended to bring essential aviation training to St. Maarten and eventually serve professionals from neighbouring islands.

For many years, aspiring air traffic controllers have depended on overseas training facilities in Curaçao and Trinidad. Flight Data Operator certification, a required part of air traffic control training, has traditionally only been available abroad through an intensive two-year training program.

PJIA is now building that expertise locally through the new academy, known as PATA. The airport has invested in a dedicated training facility equipped with modern classrooms and simulators, creating the foundation for a sustainable aviation training program in St. Maarten.

The airport’s long-term vision extends beyond the country. As the academy’s capacity expands, PJIA plans to make its programs available to aviation professionals from neighbouring islands, positioning St. Maarten as a regional training centre for Air Traffic Services and the wider aviation industry.

Bringing aviation training closer to home is expected to strengthen regional knowledge, expertise and operational capacity, while reducing the cost of and dependence on overseas training.

The academy’s development was highlighted as nine Air Traffic Services trainees achieved Flight Data Operator certification, an important milestone in their progress toward becoming fully licensed air traffic controllers.

The newly certified Flight Data Operators are Monzon Bender, Ejanee Brown, Simeon Brooks, N’Kenzi Williams, Rachelle Barrett, Edwin der Weer, Kimoya Beckford, Tishawndro Richardson and Jaheel Fleming.

Their certification allows them to independently perform Flight Data Operator duties while continuing their broader air traffic control training.

Flight Data Operators perform an essential function within the control tower, supporting the safe and efficient movement of aircraft while gaining the operational experience required to advance toward full air traffic controller certification.

PJIA hosted a certification ceremony attended by members of the Managing Board, Air Traffic Services management, instructors and colleagues.

Certificates were presented by PJIA Chief Executive Officer Michael Cleaver, Emile Levons, Interim Director of Air Traffic Services Richard van Dinter and Manager of ATS Training and Development Duncan van Heyningen.

“Every aircraft that arrives or departs Princess Juliana International Airport relies on highly trained professionals working behind the scenes,” Cleaver said.

“Investing in local aviation talent is one of the most important investments we make. These trainees represent the future of Air Traffic Services in St. Maarten and today’s milestone reflects our long-term commitment to safety, operational excellence and developing aviation professionals right here at home.”

The certification represents more than the individual progress of the nine trainees. PJIA said it also reflects a wider transformation within the airport’s Air Traffic Services Division and its approach to developing the next generation of aviation professionals.

Building local and regional training capacity is expected to strengthen operational continuity, create new opportunities for St. Maarten’s future aviation workforce and support the development of aviation professionals throughout the Caribbean.

“This certification is much more than completing another training module,” Van Dinter said.

“It reflects months of dedication, discipline and teamwork. Every trainee has demonstrated the commitment required to continue toward becoming an Air Traffic Controller, and we are proud to support them throughout that journey. At the same time, we are rebuilding something much larger: the future of Air Traffic Services training in St. Maarten and the wider region.”

Air traffic controllers coordinate aircraft arrivals and departures and help ensure that planes move safely and efficiently through St. Maarten’s airspace and the surrounding region.

Every aircraft arriving at or departing from Princess Juliana International Airport depends on trained professionals working behind the scenes before passengers enter or leave the terminal.

PJIA said its responsibility for aviation safety therefore includes investing in the people who will manage the country’s airspace in the years ahead.

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the airport said it remains committed to developing local talent and investing in the professionals who connect St. Maarten to the world.

The certification of the nine Flight Data Operators represents another step toward preparing a new generation of air traffic controllers to safely guide aircraft through St. Maarten’s skies, while helping establish the country as a future centre for aviation training in the Caribbean.

Princess Juliana International Airport is the main gateway to St. Maarten and the second-busiest airport in the Northeast Caribbean.

The airport serves as an important regional hub, connecting destinations including Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barthélemy, Anguilla, Dominica, Nevis and Tortola.

PJIA directly employs more than 330 professionals and supports an airport community of more than 1,700 people, including airline partners, concessionaires and service providers. The airport said this wider community contributes to regional connectivity, tourism development, economic growth and the continued improvement of aviation services.

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