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Princess Juliana International Airport Welcomes Dr. Bekele as Airport Medical Doctor

September 27, 2026 · By Pure Media Hive Staff

Princess Juliana International Airport Welcomes Dr. Bekele as Airport Medical Doctor

SINT MAARTEN — Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company N.V. (PJIA) has welcomed Dr. Bekele as the airport's Medical Doctor, succeeding Dr. Swanston, who previously served in the role.

PJIA extended sincere appreciation to Dr. Swanston for her dedication and valuable service to the airport's medical preparedness and emergency response capabilities.

In her new role, Dr. Bekele will work closely with the airport's Emergency Medical Technician team and operational departments, providing medical expertise during emergencies, supporting triage and coordination in the event of a mass-casualty incident, and serving as PJIA's designated medical contact for medical evacuation operations — including the medical authorization required to reopen the airport following medevac situations involving patients arriving from Saba or St. Eustatius.

She will also provide medical guidance to PJIA management on emerging global health developments, including infectious diseases and other public health concerns that may affect airport operations.

"Having access to qualified medical expertise is an important component of our overall emergency preparedness," said Michael Cleaver, CEO of PJIA. "We are pleased to welcome Dr. Bekele to the airport community and look forward to working with her."

Source: SHTA