SECURITY INFORMATION
Travel Securely
Princess Juliana International Airport places utmost priority on safety and security, supported by a state-of-the-art Air Traffic Control Tower, advanced radar systems, a Category 9 Fire and Rescue Service, and centralized pre-screening procedures. The airport boasts one of the best safety records in the region, reinforced by a Runway End Safety Area (RESA) built to international standards to reduce overrun risks.
Prohibited Items
The following items are not allowed in carry-on luggage and will be confiscated at airport security:
Liquids, aerosols, gels
Knives and cutting instruments, including razor blades, scissors, and metal nail files
Firearms
Ice picks
Lighters, lighter fluid, fuels, pesticides, compressed gas cartridges, matches
Nail polish remover, solvents
Golf clubs and sporting equipment
Cooking oil
Security Requirements
Arrivals
At Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), we are committed to ensuring a safe and secure experience for all arriving passengers. Once you disembark the aircraft, you will follow a guided path directly to Immigration, where security procedures are in place to verify travel documents and protect the integrity of our borders. Please have your passport and any required entry documents ready for inspection to ensure a smooth process.
Read MoreArrivals
After completing Immigration, passengers continue to the baggage claim area, where all checked luggage will be screened prior to being placed on one of our three baggage belts. This ensures that all items entering the country comply with safety regulations. If additional screening or inspection is required, airport staff or security personnel will notify you.
Upon collecting your bags, you will proceed through Customs, where security checks are in place to protect the island from prohibited or restricted items. Passengers may be asked to declare certain goods in accordance with St. Maarten’s regulations. Clear signage and Customs officers are available to guide you through what must be declared and what may require inspection.
Throughout the arrivals process, SXM Airport security teams work closely with Immigration and Customs to maintain a secure environment while ensuring that passengers feel welcome and supported. If you have questions or need assistance at any point, our Customer Service Team is always nearby.
Departures
Before heading to your departure gate, all passengers must go through a series of security checks designed to ensure a safe and efficient travel experience. After completing your airline check-in and dropping off any checked luggage, you will proceed directly to the Security Screening checkpoint.
Read MoreDepartures
At the screening area, carry-on bags, personal items, and electronic devices will be inspected. To help the process move quickly, keep laptops, tablets, and other electronics accessible, and be prepared to follow the instructions of the security officers on duty.
Travelers should also be aware of items that are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage. This includes sharp objects, hazardous materials, and any goods restricted by aviation regulations. In addition, St. Maarten has environmental protection rules that prohibit passengers from taking seashells, coral, sand, or other natural beach materials out of the country. These items will be removed if found during screening.
Once you’ve completed the security process, you can continue into the Departure Hall, where you will find flight information screens, clear signage, and announcements to guide you to your gate. If at any point you need assistance or have questions about security procedures, our Customer Service Team is ready to help.
Thank you for cooperating with our security guidelines and helping us ensure a safe journey for all passengers. Safe travels!
Connections
Passengers connecting through SXM Airport must follow the same security procedures as departing travelers, as all connections require entering the island and rechecking in for the next flight. Once you arrive and clear Immigration and Customs, you will collect your luggage and make your way to your next airline’s check-in counter. After checking in again, you will proceed to the Security Screening checkpoint.
At this checkpoint, all carry-on items, electronics, and personal belongings must be screened. To make your transfer as quick and stress-free as possible, keep laptops, tablets, and other electronics easily accessible and follow the instructions of the security staff.
Accessibility Services
Dedicated accessibility services are available to assist guests with disabilities through every step of the security screening process.
LEARN MOREFrequently Asked Questions
Prohibited items include sharp objects, flammable substances, tools, weapons or replicas, and liquids exceeding 100ml per container. All items must comply with international aviation security regulations.
Yes, but only in containers of 100ml or less, placed inside a clear, resealable plastic bag (maximum 1 liter total). Each passenger is allowed one bag of liquids in their carry-on.
You may be asked to remove items such as laptops, tablets, liquids, jackets, belts, and shoes for separate screening. All personal items must be placed in trays for inspection.
Yes. Essential medication and baby food or formula are allowed in reasonable quantities and may exceed the 100ml limit. These items must be declared at the security checkpoint.
Prohibited items may be confiscated and not returned, so we advise reviewing your bags before arriving. If in doubt, check with your airline or consult the airport’s prohibited items list.
Yes, certain airlines may offer fast-track security to eligible passengers. Please check with your airline or loyalty program for availability.
SXM Airport adheres to international aviation security standards, including CCTV monitoring, explosive trace detection, metal detectors, and trained security staff to ensure passenger safety.
If you have questions about security procedures, please speak with a security officer on-site or contact the airport’s customer service team in advance of your travel.