Low Landings at Princess Juliana Airport

Princess Juliana Airport on the island of San Maarten in the Caribbean is a unique airport in that the short runway necessitates some incredibly low landings. As a matter of fact, tourists will often gather on the beach next to the runway to experience the blast from the airplanes roaring overhead. Arriving aircraft approach the island on the last section of the final approach for Runway 10, following a 3° glide slope flying low over the famous Maho Beach. Pictures of low flying aircraft were published in several news magazines worldwide in early 2000. The thrilling approaches and ease of access for shooting spectacular images, made the airport one of the world’s favorite places among plane spotters. To meet changing international and local regulations a 150-metre (490 ft) safety extension was required. Despite the reputed difficulties in approach, there have been no records of major incidents at the airport.