Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, commonly known as Sea-Tac, is the primary commercial airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area in Washington State. Located roughly midway between the cities of Seattle and Tacoma, the airport opened in 1947 and has expanded significantly to handle over 50 million passengers per year. Sea-Tac features a main terminal with two satellite concourses connected by an underground transit system. The airport serves as a major hub for Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines, and is an important gateway for international flights to Asia, particularly Japan, South Korea, and China. The Sound Transit Link Light Rail connects the airport to downtown Seattle in approximately 40 minutes, with service to the University of Washington and points north. Sea-Tac has undergone substantial modernization in recent years, including the opening of the International Arrivals Facility in 2022, which added 20 new gates for wide-body aircraft. The airport's geographic position in the Pacific Northwest gives it a natural advantage for great circle routes to East Asia, making it one of the fastest connections between the continental United States and cities like Tokyo and Seoul.

Aviation Terms

Airfield Lighting (AGL) Airport Category Airport Elevation (ELEV) Airport Fire Station (ARFF) Airport Lounge Airport Reference Point (ARP) Apron Automated Passport Control (APC)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from Seattle-Tacoma Airport to downtown Seattle?

Sound Transit Link Light Rail runs directly from SEA to downtown Seattle. The ride to Westlake Station takes about 40 minutes and costs $3.00. Trains depart every 8-15 minutes depending on the time of day. The station is located on the fourth floor of the airport parking garage, accessible via a skybridge from the main terminal.

How many terminals does Seattle-Tacoma Airport have?

SEA has one main terminal building with four concourses: A, B, C, and D, plus the South Satellite and North Satellite buildings connected by an underground train. Concourse A handles Alaska Airlines domestic flights, while the South Satellite serves most international departures.

Which airlines have a hub at Seattle-Tacoma Airport?

Alaska Airlines operates its primary hub at SEA with over 300 daily departures, making it the dominant carrier with about 50% market share. Delta Air Lines also runs a major hub at SEA with extensive domestic and international service. Alaska Airlines is a member of the Oneworld alliance.

Does Seattle Airport have good food options?

Yes, SEA is known for having some of the best airport dining in the U.S., featuring local Seattle restaurants and brands. Notable options include Beecher's Handmade Cheese, Bambuza Vietnam Kitchen, and Starbucks locations throughout the terminals. The airport requires concessionaires to offer street pricing, meaning food costs the same as at city locations.

Is there free Wi-Fi at Seattle-Tacoma Airport?

Yes, SEA offers free Wi-Fi with no time limit throughout all concourses and terminals. The network is named SEA-Free-WiFi and does not require registration. The airport also provides numerous charging stations with USB and AC power outlets at most gate areas.