Curaçao has just strengthened its air link with St. Maarten, as Z Air officially launched scheduled jet service between the two islands on July 14, 2025. The inaugural flight, using a sleek 44-seat Embraer ERJ‑140, marked a milestone at a festive ceremony held at Hato International Airport.
🎉 A Festive Departure
The departure event carried all the hallmarks of celebration. Fire trucks formed a “Soaring Sirens Salute” as the jet taxied away. Speeches were delivered by prominent figures, including Curaçao’s Minister of Governance, Planning & Public Service, the Z Air CEO, and representatives from the airport and tourism boards. A commemorative plaque, decorated with the iconic Queen Emma Bridge and Handelskade by night, was gifted to the airline as a symbol of this new chapter in Caribbean travel.
🕒 Schedule & Connections
Starting July 14, Z Air operates three weekly round-trips between Curaçao and Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten:
- Mondays & Wednesdays: Depart Curaçao at 8:15 a.m., arrive St. Maarten around 9:30 a.m.; return at 10:45 a.m.
- Fridays: Afternoon flights are also included in the weekly schedule.
A second jet is expected to arrive soon, which will enable daily flights between the two islands in the near future.
🚀 Faster Jet, Better Service
Say goodbye to the slow turboprops of the past—Z Air’s Embraer jet reduces travel time to approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, nearly an hour faster than many previous services. With three convenient weekly flights and more coming soon, the new route offers a smoother, quicker travel experience for both leisure and business passengers.
🔁 Regional Impact & Competition
This jet route brings new energy to Caribbean air travel. With JetAir ceasing operations in 2024, a major gap had formed in regional connectivity. Z Air has stepped up to fill that void. This new route also adds healthy competition to existing carriers, offering travelers more options and upgraded comfort.
🏝️ A Shortcut to Paradise
Z Air’s new jet service isn’t just about saving time — it’s about unlocking easy access to two stunning island destinations. Curaçao’s colorful Dutch charm and St. Maarten’s lively beach vibes are now just a quick flight apart. Whether you’re craving a weekend escape or planning an island-hopping adventure, this new route makes paradise more reachable than ever.
💼 More Than Tourism: A Business Boost
While vacationers will love the new Curaçao–St. Maarten route, it also spells good news for professionals and entrepreneurs. With quicker travel and more frequent flights, it’s now easier for businesspeople, students, and government officials to stay connected across the islands. The new route adds serious value to the region’s economy and day-to-day connectivity.
🌟 Why This Is Great News
This new flight route is more than just a travel update — it’s a win for locals, tourists, and the entire region. Travelers now have a faster, more comfortable option to hop between Curaçao and St. Maarten without long layovers or slow turboprops. For the islands, it means stronger tourism, better business connections, and exciting possibilities for future growth. It’s the kind of good news that opens skies, supports economies, and brings the Dutch Caribbean closer than ever before.
🌍 What’s Next
This is just the beginning for Z Air. The airline is actively working on expanding its reach, with future plans to launch new routes across the Caribbean and even into Latin America. Tourism officials see this new jet service as a key piece in boosting travel, business, and regional connections.
💬 Final Thoughts
Z Air’s Curaçao–St. Maarten launch isn’t just about flying—it’s about linking people, places, and possibilities. With faster jets, growing routes, and a vision for the future, this is a step forward for the entire Dutch Caribbean.
