Seattle-Tacoma International Airport Invests Billions in Infrastructure Projects
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), the eighth busiest airport in the US, has launched almost $2 billion in major infrastructure projects in the last two years and plans to invest another $5 billion by 2027 to meet the growing demand for air travel and enhance the passenger experience. The airport, which served more than 51 million passengers in 2021, has seen a rapid recovery from the pandemic-induced slump, with traffic up overall and few down times.
“We can’t build or improve the airport fast enough to keep up with that growth and still stay operational,” said Charles Goedken, manager of operational readiness and airport transition.
The infrastructure projects, brought together under the banner Upgrade SEA, cover various aspects of the airport’s operations, such as roadway improvements, terminal expansions, checkpoint upgrades, baggage system modernization, cargo facilities, sustainability initiatives, and more. Some of the highlights include:
- The International Arrivals Facility (IAF), a $968 million project that will open in early 2022, will increase the capacity and efficiency of processing international passengers, with a new 450,000-square-foot facility, an elevated walkway, and a new baggage claim area.
- The North Satellite Modernization Project, a $710 million project that was completed in summer 2021, added eight new gates and 255,000 square feet of space to the north terminal, along with new dining and retail options, art installations, and environmental features.
- The SEA Gateway Project, a $340 million project in partnership with Alaska Airlines, will add eight new gates and 175,000 square feet of space to the south terminal by 2024, along with a new lounge for Alaska Airlines passengers.
- The Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP), a long-term vision for the airport’s development that includes more than 30 near-term projects that will be completed or under construction by 2032. The near-term projects include a new terminal with 19 gates, an automated people mover with three stations, cargo facilities, and various projects to improve safety, efficiency, and access to the airport.
The infrastructure projects are expected to create thousands of jobs, boost the local economy, and improve the airport’s environmental performance. The projects are also designed to enhance the customer experience by providing more space, services, amenities, and technology for passengers.
The airport is also working closely with its stakeholders and partners to ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruptions during the construction period. The airport has set up a dedicated website and social media channels to inform passengers about changes happening at SEA and provide tips on how to navigate the airport.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, portseattle.org, airport-world.com