I have used tradewind from the get go when they started the service to st. barths to san juan. you must have overlooked the amazing ham & cheese sandwiches in the fridge at the lounge plus all the fruit and coffees etc. you must be speaking of the chips soda and beer in the small cooler in the plane.
I love it, but understand if you prefer the overcrowded conditions at st. maarten. plus commuter only uses one pilot. although a ten minute or so ride from sxm to sbh, could you take over if the pilot became unable to fly? winair uses 2 pilots that makes it a much safer flight in my opinion, their prices are almost double to commuter prices, but 2 pilots is the reason for the extra fare charges.
Yes , the cost is more with tradewind, but I love the experience always. esp. the trip from sbh to sju. after arriving, there is no long wait to go through customs etc. you can get vip with tradewind, I never have used vip as they seem to offer it regardless. I was with someone that needed a wheel chair and the assistant pushed him all the way to the rental car place when we were staying in sju for a few days. we did give the assistant a tip.