Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is heading into the Labor Day holiday after a record-breaking summer for passenger traffic, with officials urging travelers to plan ahead for busy checkpoints, construction, and new changes at the terminal.
The Port of Seattle reported that SEA broke its all-time daily passenger record three times this summer — on June 22, July 27, and Aug. 10. The most recent record saw more than 78,700 passengers move through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints in a single day, with an estimated 207,000 travelers overall including arrivals and connections.
“Eight of the top ten largest passenger volume days in history at SEA have been recorded this summer,” the Port said. International arrivals also hit new highs, with July 26 seeing more than 11,200 passengers processed through customs.
To handle the surge, SEA recently expanded Checkpoint 1, which now includes TSA PreCheck and CLEAR+, and added new check-in space at the north end ticketing area as part of its Gateway Project. The airport said 99% of passengers have cleared security in under 30 minutes so far this year, an improvement over 2023.
Officials are also reminding drivers to expect construction along the airport expressway, where lanes have been reconfigured but remain open. The project, which includes raising the Arrivals Drive, is scheduled for completion in spring 2026. Travelers are encouraged to use alternatives to driving, including Link light rail, public transit, and rideshare options.
During the holiday travel period from Aug. 28 to Sept. 2, more than one million passengers are expected, about 7% higher than last year. The busiest day is forecast for Friday, Aug. 29, with nearly 197,000 travelers.
In addition to construction and checkpoint changes, SEA has added new dining and retail options, including Skillet near Gate C10, Theo Chocolate near Gate A1, and Seattle Beer Union near Gate A10.
The airport is also reminding passengers that the federal REAL ID Act is now in effect, requiring travelers to have a REAL ID-compliant identification or an alternative accepted document to board domestic flights.
Travelers are advised to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures, and to use SEA Spot Saver to reserve a place in the security line.
