So you Thought that Sea-Tac Expansion was Really Underway?
The Port of Seattle has embarked on a much-needed, massive Seattle-Tacoma International Airport expansion. But the plan is far from taking off.
The projects, including a new passenger terminal with 19 new aircraft gates, still must undergo another year of environmental review and win approval by the Port Commission. Even then it could be a decade or more before the growing crush of passengers see relief from congested gates, long security lines, and traffic back-ups. Delays in the study have pushed back the scheduled completion of the projects from 2027 to 2032. Litigation by environmental opponents might stretch that timeline even further.
A bigger worry is a potential cash crunch that may cause some projects to be delayed, pared back, or shelved altogether. A $5 billion spending blitz on improvements in the existing terminal over the past five years, coupled with high inflation and a weakening economy, could leave the Port short of funds to pay for badly needed new capacity.
Among the many projects recently were the new international-arrivals facility, modernization of Alaska Airlines’ ticketing area at the north end of the terminal, a new security checkpoint, and the launch of an expanded Concourse C structure, adding offices and new retail space. All were aimed at improving passenger movement, efficiency, and adding new amenities. Even so, no new aircraft parking gates have been added since 2021.
https://www.postalley.org/2025/12/03/so-you-thought-that-sea-tac-expansion-was-really-underway/