Behind the scenes at Rémy de Haenen Airport

Arriving on St. Barth is an experience in itself. Officially known as Rémy de Haenen Airport (SBH), the island’s airstrip is famous for its dramatic descent over the hillside and remarkably short runway along the sea, a landing many consider a true rite of passage.

Long before modern facilities took shape, aircraft touched down on a far simpler strip of land. Early images from our family archives reveal a time when the runway was little more than a clearing; reflecting an island still finding its way to the outside world. Named after aviator Rémy de Haenen, who first landed here in the 1940s, the airport has evolved while preserving its distinctly intimate scale.

Small, efficient, and deeply woven into daily island life, the airport is where nearly every stay begins.

Recently, we were invited behind the scenes for a closer look at the airport in action. Behind the gates is a choreography: ground crews guiding arrivals, luggage moving swiftly, planes turning with impressive precision.

For Sibarth, the airport has been part of our daily routine since the 1970s.

Our team is often among the first to welcome guests as they step off the plane, assisting with baggage, coordinating rental cars, and helping ensure each arrival and departure happens seamlessly. During busy periods, the airport becomes a comfortable extension of our office.

You will find us beside the rental car desks, in the check-in area, and near departures, where our familiar box is stocked with Sibarth publications, including the current Fifty Things booklet. Feel free to take a copy before takeoff or upon landing.