St. Barts combines French elegance with Caribbean beauty, creating the ultimate island retreat for the global elite. Pristine white-sand beaches, Michelin-level dining, and designer boutiques line this eight-square-mile jewel. New Year's Eve here is among the most celebrated in the world.
Gustaf III Airport (SBH) has one of the world's most dramatic short runways. Most private jets land in St. Maarten (SXM) with a 15-minute connecting flight or helicopter transfer to St. Barts.
St. Barts has no commercial jet service — Gustaf III Airport's 2,170-foot runway only accommodates small propeller aircraft and helicopters. Flying private to St. Maarten and connecting via charter prop or helicopter is the standard luxury arrival. During the holiday season and New Year's Eve, when the island hosts the world's most exclusive celebrations, early booking of the St. Maarten connection is essential.
Most private jet travelers land at Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten, where your FBO concierge arranges a seamless transfer to St. Barts via a thrilling 10-minute prop plane hop or scenic helicopter ride over turquoise waters. The dramatic short-runway landing at Gustaf III Airport is an experience in itself, delivering you directly to the charm of Gustavia.
Private jets fly to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten, then connect via a 10-minute charter flight on a small aircraft like a Cessna Grand Caravan or a 7-minute helicopter transfer. The dramatic approach over turquoise waters and steep descent onto the short runway at Gustaf III Airport is legendary.
The total cost includes the private jet to St. Maarten plus the inter-island transfer. A heavy jet from New York to SXM costs approximately $30,000–$50,000, and the charter prop or helicopter connection adds $500–$2,000 per person. During New Year's week, all prices increase significantly.
December through April is the peak season with perfect weather, calm seas, and the island's legendary social scene. New Year's Eve is the ultimate St. Barts experience, with superyacht parties and exclusive celebrations. The shoulder months of November and May offer excellent weather with fewer crowds.
St. Barts is a French overseas collectivity, so EU citizens can enter freely. US, Canadian, and UK citizens can visit visa-free for up to 90 days with a valid passport. Since most travelers transit through Dutch St. Maarten, check entry requirements for both territories.
December to April for dry, sunny weather and peak social season.
Tropical maritime climate with consistent warmth. Dry season December-April with temperatures of 25-30C and cooling trade winds.
Book your villa and restaurant reservations months in advance for the holiday season. Arrive via St. Maarten and take a scenic helicopter transfer.
For travel to St. Barts, we recommend the following Heavy Jet aircraft:
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