SeaPort Airlines Resumes Flights After Nine-Year Hiatus
SeaPort Airlines has resumed scheduled passenger operations nearly nine years after ceasing business, launching a high-frequency shuttle service between Seattle Boeing Field and Portland International on May 20, 2025.
The revived carrier is operating under the Part 135 certificate of its sister company, Air Excursions. The initial service includes eight daily flights using two Pilatus PC-12/45 turboprops, N524TW and N840AG, each seating up to nine passengers. SeaPort plans to increase frequency to departures every 45 minutes over time.
SeaPort is targeting time-sensitive travelers by operating from private terminals, bypassing Seattle Tacoma International Airport and busy I-5 traffic. “This commuter shuttle service will make the travel experience quicker, easier, and more predictable,” said Kent Craford, chairman and CEO of Kalinin Holdings, SeaPort’s parent company.
Craford originally founded SeaPort Airlines in 2008 but exited in 2009 following investor disagreements. After his departure, the airline expanded into government-subsidized Essential Air Service (EAS) routes with Cessna Grand Caravans but struggled financially and filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2016.
In 2011, Craford returned to regional aviation, acquiring Alaska Seaplanes along with other investors. Kalinin Holdings now controls several regional airlines, including Air Excursions and Island Air Express, operating a combined fleet of 23 aircraft that includes Pilatus PC-12s, Cessna 208s, and de Havilland DHC-2s.
Kalinin Holdings plans to leverage its experience in regional aviation and private terminal access to rebuild SeaPort’s reputation in the Pacific Northwest’s short-haul business travel market.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com