Estimated Checkpoint Wait Times

Estimated checkpoint wait times

Traveler Alert: We're working to restore live estimated checkpoint wait times on the flySEA App and website. Please see other advice on security screening in the meantime to best prepare for your trip.

When to arrive at the airport

Security screening operations, hours and staffing are managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Avoid feeling rushed — factor in the time you need to travel from parking or drop-offs to the terminal. More than one-third of SEA’s daily passenger volume arrives at the airport before 9 a.m., causing busy conditions at TSA security checkpoints and on the airport drives. Two more peak periods occur from 2 to 5 p.m. and from 9 to 11 p.m.

How to get through the checkpoints quicker

Travelers can access all gates from any checkpoint. There are five available checkpoints featuring general, premium, CLEAR, SEA Spot Saver, TSA PreCheck, and ADA-friendly screening. Expedite screening by following these simple instructions:

Choose your Checkpoint:

Before entering the checkpoint:

• Have your ID and boarding pass out and ready for the ticket document checker when you get to the front of the line
• Make sure reusable water bottles are emptied, we have liquid disposal available at checkpoints for your use
• Know what items you can and can't bring ahead of time by checking with TSA your airline before going through security
• Note: Checkpoint 6 is temporarily closed during construction to add space and capacity to significantly improve passenger processing with the SEA Gateway project

In the screening lane:

• For all specialty items such as car seats, strollers, wheelchairs, medication, baby formula, etc. please see a TSA Agent for assistance
• Make sure your pockets are empty and remove common items like keys, tissues, currency, wallets, cellphones, along with bulky jewelry and belts. Valuable items can be placed in carry-on
• Shoes and jackets must be removed and placed in a bin
• All electronic devices larger than a cell phone such as laptops, tablets, e-readers, and handheld game consoles must be removed from their bags and place them in a bin without other items on top or underneath them for X-ray screening
• Carry-on bags must be placed in a separate bin

After screening:

• Remember to check the bins and collect ALL of your belongings after going through screening. If you left something at the TSA Checkpoints by accident it’ll be turned in to our Airport Lost and Found!

Interested in an expedited experience?

Explore some of the available programs. Any Checkpoint leads to all gates and airlines.