This is the year News that Delta Airlines will start flying directly to St. Maarten from Atlanta three times a week from December 1 is most welcome. The lack of more affordable airlift from its principal market in North America has been one of the major obstacles in efforts to revive the island's tourism economy following first Hurricane Lenny and then 9-11. The fact that a new U.S. "gateway" in Atlanta has now been opened in addition to New York (American Airlines), Philadelphia (US Airways), New Jersey (Continental) and Miami (American Airlines) is also very important. While most tourists still come from the tri-state area, the market is becoming more diverse. Time-share units are sold to cruise passengers who come from all over the U.S. and need convenient connections to make use of their "vacation ownership." In addition, Atlanta airport is one of the biggest "hubs" and opens up the Southern US market. Also in terms of pricing, the Delta flights will provide some extra competition, which is helpful in keeping air fares at a level where St. Maarten can hold its own against some of the other destinations in the region. The ability of the Princess Juliana International Airport to provide Delta with the counter space it needed played an important part in Delta's decision to come, as did the relentless efforts of the commissioner of tourism and his department. Both deserve to be commended. The flights will be reduced to once a week in the low season, but other airlines too tend to fly less during the slow months. In addition, there is always the possibility that if the demand is there, this could be increased again, as was the case in Aruba. In that lies an enormous challenge for the tourism sector and the island as a whole. The work to get the optimal benefit from this new service as well as the Maho charters announced recently is only now starting. There is much to be done under difficult circumstances, but at least with a growing prospect that things will improve. This is the year, make or break, do or die. It's all hands on deck. Give us your opinion on this story Post a message on our message board! Click Here! Copyright ©1998-2001 The Daily Herald - Design by Dimitri1678