St. Barthelemy Airport

Rémy de Haenen Airport (SBH) is not just a transport hub, but a breathtaking gateway to a world of Caribbean luxury and exclusivity. Landing here is considered one of the most spectacular aviation attractions on the planet: planes fly just meters above a busy road and land practically on the sands of St. Jean Beach. This compact and cozy airport sets the tone for the entire journey from the very first minutes, combining a dose of adrenaline with the relaxed atmosphere of a tropical paradise.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

St. Barthelemy Airport is unique in many respects, and its modest size is more of an advantage than a disadvantage. The main "highlight" is undoubtedly the runway, which is only 650 meters long. It is wedged between a high hill and a sea bay, requiring special certification and high skill from pilots. For passengers, this means unforgettable views during descent that cannot be seen at standard international hubs.

Thanks to the miniature size of the terminal, all formalities here are completed as quickly as possible. The journey from the aircraft steps to the airport exit often takes no more than 10–15 minutes. There are no endless corridors or tiring queues; the atmosphere resembles a private flying club rather than a station. The staff understands the specifics of VIP tourism and provides a high level of service.

The location of the airport also plays an important role. It is located in the St. Jean district, literally across the road from one of the island's most popular beaches and famous beach clubs. You can find yourself by the sea or in a restaurant just a few minutes after landing, making the start of your vacation instant and comfortable.

Below you will find contact information for Rémy de Haenen Airport (SBH), which serves the island and its capital, Gustavia.

• Official Website: www.saintbarth-airport.com
• Information Desk Phone: +590 590 27 65 41
• Address: Aéroport de Saint-Barthélemy-Rémy de Haenen, St Jean, 97133 Saint-Barthélemy
• Email: contact.sbh@edeis.com
• Social Media: Current information and news can be found on the airport's official Facebook page.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost luggage or personal items on board the aircraft, please contact your airline directly. If items were lost within the terminal, contact the airport information desk.
• Passenger Support Service: For consultations and assistance, you can use the airport's main phone number or email address.

St. Barthelemy Airport (SBH), also known as Gustaf III Airport, is located in the St. Jean district, just a few kilometers from the island's capital, Gustavia. Due to the compact size of Saint Barthelemy, the journey to the air harbor is simple and fast, although the island's transport system has its own peculiarities. A trip from the center of Gustavia to the terminal usually takes no more than 5-10 minutes.

Taxis and Private Transfers are the most common and convenient way to get to the airport for those who have not rented a car. Taxi stands can be found in Gustavia, at most hotels, and at popular beaches. Note that the cost of a trip can be quite high, especially during the peak season (for example, during the festive holidays). It is strongly recommended to book a car in advance, especially if you have an early flight. Many villas and hotels can also arrange a private transfer for you.

Car Rental is the most popular option for moving around the island, providing maximum freedom. Most international and local rental agencies have offices right at the airport, making the process of picking up and returning the car extremely convenient. If you have rented a car for the entire vacation period, you can easily drive to the airport yourself. Roads on Saint Barthelemy are narrow, hilly, and winding, so compact cars are most often chosen for travel.

There is a small parking lot at St. Barthelemy Airport. It is mainly used for short stops to drop off or pick up passengers. Long-term parking is not common here, as most travelers either use taxi services or return their rental car before departure.

It is important to note that on Saint Barthelemy, there is a complete absence of public transport in the traditional sense: there are no bus routes or trains. Therefore, you should plan your trip to the airport based on two main options — a taxi or a rental car.

It is also worth remembering that Saint Barthelemy Airport has a very short runway and can only accommodate small aircraft. The main flow of tourists arrives via Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on the island of Sint Maarten, and then takes a short 15-minute flight or a ferry ride. Flights also operate from other neighboring islands, where L'Espérance Airport (SFG) and Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) are located.

St. Barthelemy Airport, also known as Gustaf III Airport (SBH), is the gateway to one of the most exclusive islands in the Caribbean. Unlike major international hubs, its structure is extremely simple and focused on serving small aircraft and private aviation.

The airport operates with just one compact terminal, which handles absolutely all flights — both arrivals and departures. It is a single building where all necessary services are concentrated, so the concept of "transfer between terminals" is simply irrelevant here. Thanks to its modest size, the airport offers passengers quick and convenient service without long queues or complex navigation schemes.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the main hall, where the check-in counters are located. To the left or right (depending on the current space organization), there is a small security checkpoint leading to a cozy departure lounge. The Arrivals Zone is a small room where passengers proceed directly from the airfield to go through passport control and collect luggage. The entire process takes minimal time.

Due to the small number of flights and low passenger traffic, check-in and security screening rarely take much time. As a rule, it is sufficient to arrive at the airport 60-90 minutes before departure. However, it is always better to check the recommendations of your airline. The main advice for navigating St. Barthelemy Airport is not to worry. It is literally impossible to get lost here, and the staff is always ready to help and direct you.

The history of the airport in Gustavia, officially known as Gustaf III Airport (SBH), is inextricably linked with the unique geographical location of the island of Saint Barthelemy and its transformation into an elite resort. It is not just a transport hub, but a true landmark known worldwide for one of the most challenging runways.

Officially, the airport in its current form was opened in 1984. However, its history began much earlier. The pioneer of aviation on the island was the French adventurer and future mayor Rémy de Haenen, who in 1946 first landed a plane on the savannah in the St. Jean area, where the airport is located today. This bold act opened the island to the outside world and marked the beginning of its tourism development.

Since its opening, the main stage of the airport's development has focused not on expansion, but on adapting to extreme conditions. Its runway is only 646 meters long and is sandwiched between the La Tourmente hill and St. Jean Beach. Because of this, only small propeller aircraft with a capacity of up to 19 people can land here, and pilots require special certification. The approach to the runway, requiring a steep descent over the hill and road, is considered one of the most thrilling and difficult in the world.

The airport has repeatedly undergone modernization, especially regarding the terminal and navigation systems, to meet high service standards. Significant reconstruction was required after the devastating Hurricane Irma in 2017, which caused serious damage to the infrastructure. The terminal was quickly restored and improved, while preserving its cozy Caribbean style.

The main achievement of St. Barthelemy Airport is its global fame. It regularly appears on lists of the most dangerous and impressive airports on the planet. An interesting fact: the runway ends right on the sands of the popular St. Jean Beach, which has turned this place into a cult spot for spotters — aviation photography enthusiasts. Watching the skill of pilots landing liners just a few dozen meters away from vacationers has become one of the unique entertainments on the island.

Rémy de Haenen Airport (SBH) is a small but charming airport reflecting the exclusive character of the island itself. Services here are focused on ensuring passenger comfort before a short flight, but do not expect the infrastructure of a large international hub. Most services are concentrated in the single compact terminal.

Dining and Shopping: Inside the terminal building, you will find a small café-bar where you can order beverages, light snacks, and sandwiches. This is a great place to pass the time while waiting for a flight. Shopping opportunities are limited to a few small boutiques offering souvenirs, beachwear, and luxury items. There is no large Duty-Free zone here.

Comfort and Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available for all passengers, allowing you to stay connected. The number of charging stations for gadgets is limited, so it is better to have a portable power bank with you. For more demanding travelers, VIP services are available, which usually include personal escort and access to a separate waiting area. This service must be booked in advance through your airline or a specialized operator.

Financial and Other Services: There are no full-service bank branches or currency exchange points at the airport. It is recommended to exchange money in advance in the island's capital, Gustavia, or withdraw cash from an ATM. Basic medical services and first aid can be provided by airport staff, but there is no specialized medical center. There are no separate play areas for passengers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility should notify their airline in advance to arrange assistance and escort.

Accommodation and Business: There are no hotels or conference halls on the airport territory. However, the charm of Saint Barthelemy lies in its compactness — many luxurious villas and hotels are located just a 5-15 minute drive from the terminal. Business services, such as meeting rooms, are not provided at the airport.

St. Barthelemy Airport (SBH), also known as Gustaf III Airport, matches the exclusive and intimate character of the island. Dining options here are quite limited but offer everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight in a unique setting. Do not expect a large food court here like in major international airports — the atmosphere resembles a cozy café with one of the best views in the Caribbean.

The main and, in fact, the only place for a snack is a small bar-restaurant located in the main terminal building. Its key feature is its location right by the runway, in the public area (before security control). This place is famous not so much for culinary delights as for the breathtaking spectacle — watching takeoffs and landings on one of the shortest and most difficult runways in the world. After passing security control (airside), there are no dining options.

The establishment's menu focuses on light dishes and snacks with a French accent. Here you can order:

• Quick snack: fresh pastries (croissants, pain au chocolat), sandwiches, paninis.
• More substantial lunch: salads (for example, tuna salad), quiche, or other simple hot dishes of the day.
• Beverages: excellent coffee, fresh juices, soft drinks, as well as other refreshing beverages.

Be prepared for the fact that prices at the airport correspond to the general level on Saint Barthelemy, meaning they are quite high. The establishment's operating hours are directly linked to the flight schedule — it opens in the morning and closes after the last flight departs. Regarding dietary restrictions, the choice is extremely small. Vegetarians may find a simple salad or a sandwich with vegetables and cheese, but specialized vegan, gluten-free, or Halal options are likely absent here. Passengers with strict dietary requirements are advised to take care of food in advance.

In summary, SBH Airport is the ideal place to enjoy a cup of espresso or a refreshing drink while watching the aviation "show". for a full meal, it is better to choose one of the numerous restaurants in nearby Gustavia, and at the airport, simply enjoy the final moments of your Caribbean vacation.

Flying into St. Barthelemy Airport (SBH), also known as Gustaf III Airport, is an adventure in itself. To make your journey go as smoothly as possible, use these tips to help prepare for the peculiarities of one of the most unique airports in the world, located in the city of Gustavia on the island of Saint Barthelemy.

Arrival at the Airport and Check-in. Since the airport is very small, long queues are rare here. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time will be enough to check your luggage, complete check-in, and pass security control without rushing. The procedures are standard but take place in a much more relaxed atmosphere than at major hubs.

Seat Selection on the Plane. This is perhaps the most important advice for those flying to St. Barts! Upon landing, the plane makes a steep turn and descent over the hill, flying directly over St. Jean Beach. To enjoy this breathtaking view to the fullest, be sure to choose a seat by the window on the left side of the plane. You will remember this view for a long time!

Hand Luggage. Standard international rules apply: liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, and a ban on sharp objects. However, note that flights to St. Barts are operated on small propeller aircraft (for example, Twin Otter or Cessna Grand Caravan), where space for hand luggage is severely limited. Airlines may set stricter restrictions on weight and size, so it is better to check this information in advance.

Connecting Passengers. Most travelers fly to St. Barts with a transfer at Princess Juliana Airport (SXM) on the island of St. Maarten. When planning a connection, allow enough time (at least 2-3 hours), as you will need to go through passport control, collect luggage, and check in again for the next flight.

Customs Control and Saving Money. Customs inspection upon arrival usually goes quickly. To save time, check in for your flight online and travel with a minimum amount of luggage. St. Barts is known for its high prices, so bring a small bottle of water and a light snack with you — this will help save on purchases at the airport.

Flight Delays. St. Barthelemy Airport operates under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), which means it is heavily dependent on weather conditions. A sudden tropical downpour can lead to a flight delay or cancellation. In this case, contact your airline representative immediately. The airport terminal is small, with limited services, so in case of a wait, it is useful to have a book or a charged power bank for your gadgets with you.