COVID-19 Status Updates at SEA Airport

Stay up to date on actions we’re taking to support public health at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and learn about our commitment to a culture of safety and well-being. We post regular updates for the traveling public as new information is available. Please contact your airline about your flight.

• COVID-19 Testing and Travel Requirements
• Weekly dashboard of airport traffic
• More traveler information and resources

May 3, 2022

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a new recommendation for masks and travel saying, "At this time, CDC recommends that everyone aged 2 and older – including passengers and workers – properly wear a well-fitting mask or respirator over the nose and mouth in indoor areas of public transportation (such as airplanes, trains, etc.) and transportation hubs (such as airports, stations, etc.). When people properly wear a well-fitting mask or respirator, they protect themselves and those around them, and help keep travel and public transportation safer for everyone. Wearing a well-fitting mask or respirator is most beneficial in crowded or poorly ventilated locations, such as airport jetways. We also encourage operators of public transportation and transportation hubs to support mask wearing by all people, including employees. This public health recommendation is based on the currently available data, including an understanding of domestic and global epidemiology, circulating variants and their impact on disease severity and vaccine effectiveness, current trends in COVID-19 Community Levels within the United States, and projections of COVID-19 trends in the coming months. Along with staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines, avoiding crowds, wearing a well-fitting mask or respirator is one of multiple prevention steps that people can take to protect themselves and others in travel and transportation settings."

April 18, 2022

• Masks are now optional at SEA Airport. Following a U.S. District Court ruling that vacated the CDC mask mandate for travel and transportation, the White House announced that the TSA will not enforce its Security Directives and Emergency Amendment requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs at this time. CDC recommends that people continue to wear masks in indoor public transportation settings.

March 10, 2022

• The federal public transportation mask mandate is extended to April 18, 2022. following the U.S. District Court ruling that vacated the CDC mask mandate for transportation.

February 11, 2022

• Effective Feb. 11, testing requirements for fully vaccinated passengers regardless of age will be removed for travel into England. Unvaccinated passengers are still required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test two days before travel to England and a test after arrival. Quarantine is not required unless the result is positive.

December 2, 2021

• The U.S. is updating its travel protocols in response to the Omicron variant. The existing Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requirement to wear a mask during transportation, including at airports and onboard airplanes, is extended to March 18, 2022. Additionally, the U.S. will tighten pre-departure testing protocols by requiring all inbound international travelers to test within one day of departure globally, regardless of nationality or vaccination status.

November 29, 2021

• Effective as of November 29, 2021 the U.S. is implementing air travel restrictions for non-U.S. citizens from eight countries in Southern Africa due to the Omicron variant. The countries include South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi. Read the White House statement on this update. SEA Airport has no direct flights to/from the impacted countries. 

September 16, 2021

• Public Health – Seattle & King County issued a health order requiring verification of full vaccination or a negative test to enter certain indoor and outdoor activities and establishments. SEA Airport is exempted from this health order as a building that primarily serves non-dining purposes.

August 20, 2021

• TSA Extends Face Mask Requirement into 2022: TSA announced the extension of its face mask requirement for individuals on all modes of transportation in the U.S., including at airports, buses, aircraft, and rail systems through January 18, 2022. Exemptions to the face mask requirement for travelers under the age of two-years-old and those with certain disabilities.

August 2, 2021

• Quarantine removed for vaccinated travelers to England: Beginning Aug. 2 fully vaccinated U.S. and European Union visitors are not required to quarantine upon arrival to England. Travelers are still required to provide a negative COVID-19 test before departure and shortly after arrival in England. Policies for COVID-19 restrictions for internationally arriving flights into the U.S. have not changed.

July 19, 2021

• Canada announced easing of border measures for fully vaccinated travelers. As a first step, starting August 9, 2021, Canada plans to begin allowing entry to American citizens and permanent residents, who are currently residing in the United States, and have been fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to entering Canada for non-essential travel.

July 7, 2021

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update from July 7, 2021. After the longest year ever, summer travel is back! The ongoing FlyHealthy program and public information campaign is here to help you travel ready with peace of mind. 

June 30, 2021

• Gov. Jay Inslee moved Washington state into reopening and a return to normal capacity and operations for individuals and most businesses. Please know masks are still required at the airport and onboard aircraft per the CDC. We're excited to see travelers return and the pandemic wind down after the longest year ever, but the airport's public health guidance for travelers comes from the CDC. SEA, airport businesses, and airlines are rapidly adjusting with the accelerating number of travelers. Businesses and service providers throughout the travel journey are working hard to achieve appropriate levels of staffing, but flexibility and patience may be needed. Stay tuned to flySEA.org and communication from your airline for any important information.

June 10, 2021

• The CDC updated its travel guidance for vaccinated Americans. Read the latest on domestic travel and international travel during COVID-19. 

May 20, 2021

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update from May 20, 2021. Memorial Day weekend is the beginning of the summer travel season and we expect to see the largest number of travelers since the start of the pandemic. We're maintaining our public information campaign for summer travel and asking you to come prepared to comply with healthy travel measures.

May 13, 2021

• The CDC announced that fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear a mask or physically distance, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations. The CDC maintains the requirement to wear masks during travel, including airports and planes. Masks remain mandatory at SEA Airport and must be worn over the nose and mouth. Moreover, Gov. Jay Inslee followed that to announce  that Washington state will fully adopt masking guidance issued by the CDC. He stressed that this guidance is for fully vaccinated people — meaning people who are two weeks removed from their second shot of Pfizer or Moderna, or the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine. We are monitoring what is a developing situation and will stay in touch with future guidance.

May 10, 2021

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update from May 10, 2021. SEA is one of the first airports in the U.S. to investigate a virtual queuing system as a solution for crowded general screening lines. Designed with Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines and TSA, SEA Spot Saver is a free, reservation-based system for TSA general screening security checkpoints. The pilot program will test if SEA Spot Saver successfully reduces wait times and crowding to better maintain physical distancing. RSVP to save your spot in line!

April 19, 2021

• The U.S. State Department updated its Travel Advisories to reconsider travel abroad to better reflect the CDC ’s science-based Travel Health Notices, including considering logistics like testing availability and travel restrictions for U.S. citizens. If you are traveling internationally, visit travel.state.gov before you depart. 

April 12, 2021

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update from April 12, 2021. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is increasing our public information campaign for spring break travel and asking you to come prepared to comply with healthy travel measures. Those that feel comfortable traveling have been booking flights and looking to get out of town for spring break. You may have thought you were the only one with this idea, but we’re seeing a continued increase in the number of passengers at the airport. Keep reading for information on the TSA security lines and airport parking.

April 2, 2021

• The CDC issued new travel guidance for people who are fully vaccinated with an FDA-authorized vaccine. Travelers who are fully vaccinated can safely do so within the United States without needing to self-quarantine or get a COVID-19 test (unless your destination requires it). You must continue to wear a mask over your nose and mouth and practice physical distance and good hand hygiene.

April 1, 2021

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update from April 1, 2021 to learn about a COVID-19 vaccine clinic for airport workers, a doctor's guidance for travel through SEA and CDC recommendations for COVID-19 tests for travelers. 

March 19, 2021

• Gov. Jay Inslee rescinded his November 2020 Travel Advisory and is advising Washingtonians and others visiting Washington to comply with the CDC’s current COVID-19 travel advisory guidance. If you are traveling, get tested with a viral test 1-3 days before your trip. Make sure you have the results of your negative test before you travel. Keep a copy of your results with you during travel; you might be asked for them. Do not travel if you test positive. Immediately isolate yourself, and follow public health recommendations. Get tested again with a viral test 3-5 days after your trip and stay home and self-quarantine for a full 7 days after travel, even if your test is negative. If you don’t get tested, stay home and self-quarantine for 10 days after travel.

March 15, 2021

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update from March 15, 2021. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is increasing our public information campaign for spring break travel and asking you to come prepared to comply with healthy travel measures.

Feb. 24, 2021

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update from Feb. 24, 2021. Traveling to Mexico this winter? When you feel good about traveling, we’ll be here and ready for you. We talked to three fellow Pacific Northwesterners who recently traveled to Mexico to learn about their experiences. Here are their tips to travel safely.

Feb. 21, 2021

• Air travelers arriving to Canada, as of February 22, 2021, are required to take a COVID-19 molecular test when they arrive in Canada before exiting the airport, and another toward the end of their 14-day quarantine period. With limited exceptions, air travelers are also required to reserve a 3-night stay in a government-authorized hotel. This must be done prior to departure to Canada. These new measures are in addition to existing mandatory requirements for air travelers such as required pre-departure COVID-19 testing and negative results for air travelers coming into Canada. Learn more 

Feb. 11, 2021

• Snow and winter weather is anticipated. SEA Airport is monitoring the forecast and ready for snow and ice maintenance of runways, taxiways and the ramp areas. Please check with your airline on any anticipated delays or cancellations.

Feb. 4, 2021

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update from Feb. 4, 2021. Masks have been required at SEA since May 2020. We welcome the new guidance that makes it federal law to wear masks at U.S. airports. In addition to our robust Mask Up SEA campaign to provide notification of the masking requirements, these new federal mandates reinforce this important health and safety practice. We have free masks available for anyone who needs one, and we have already handed out over 38,000 free masks at SEA. We aim for educational and friendly interactions with travelers. However, non-compliance after repeated warnings could result in citation and potential removal from the premises.

Jan. 31, 2021

• The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) issued Security Directives to airport operators, aircraft operators, and surface transportation providers to implement the CDC mask Order in accordance with the Executive Order on Promoting COVID-19 Safety in Domestic and International Travel. This means TSA requires proper wearing of face masks, per federal law. Failure to comply will result in denial of entry to TSA screening area. This is effective Feb. 2, 2021. Learn more

Jan. 29, 2021

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update from January 29, 2021. COVID-19 international travel protocols continue to evolve. These are some of the newest COVID-19 testing requirements to be aware of as you plan your trip. Testing before and after travel is a critical layer to slow the introduction and spread of COVID-19.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an order to require all travelers and employees to wear masks while using any form of public conveyance and at transportation hubs, such as on airlines and in airports, as well as buses, bus terminals, ferries, marinas, seaports and  train stations. The CDC posted information about its order, including questions and answers. The CDC also has information on what face coverings do not fulfill the order.

Jan. 26, 2021

• The COVID-19 testing requirement for all international passengers coming into the U.S. is now effective as of Jan. 26. The CDC's protocols will impact the international arrivals and passport control process as well as the implementation of facial recognition.
• A presidential proclamation expands travel restrictions for South Africa, Brazil, Britain and 27 European countries. Due to go into effect on Jan. 30, the proclamation applies to noncitizens attempting to come to the U.S. from any of those countries for 14-days prior to travel.

Jan. 22, 2021

• Netherlands Travel Requirements: All travelers who come to the Netherlands by plane or ship must also be able to show a negative rapid test just before departure to the Netherlands. This test is a maximum of four hours old upon boarding. This is in addition to the already mandatory negative PCR test, which must be taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Please contact your airline with questions.

Jan. 15, 2021

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update from January 15, 2021. Recently, it is alarming that some passengers intentionally defy the facial covering requirements on flights and in terminals. This disruptive behavior is not tolerated. SEA deploys multiple security and safety measures to maintain safety inside our terminal. We continue to work closely with the airlines, federal agencies, Port of Seattle security and police to ensure passenger safety during flights and in the terminal.

Jan. 13, 2021

• FAA issued an order directing a stricter legal enforcement policy against unruly airline passengers in the wake of recent, troubling incidents. The FAA has seen a disturbing increase in incidents where airline passengers have disrupted flights with threatening or violent behavior. These incidents have stemmed both from passengers’ refusals to wear masks and from recent violence at the U.S. Capitol. Passengers who interfere with, physically assault, or threaten to physically assault aircraft crew or anyone else on an aircraft face stiff penalties, including fines of up to $35,000 and imprisonment. This dangerous behavior can distract, disrupt, and threaten crewmembers’ safety functions. Learn more 

Jan. 12, 2021

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is expanding the requirement for a negative COVID-19 test to all air passengers entering the United States.  Testing before and after travel is a critical layer to slow the introduction and spread of COVID-19. Read the press release

Dec. 31, 2020

• Canada announced it will require pre-departure COVID-19 testing and negative results for air travelers coming into Canada, effective January 7, 2021. Learn more

Dec. 30, 2020

• Gov. Inslee announced a one-week extension of the "Stay Safe–Stay Healthy" proclamation, along with the statewide restrictions imposed. The extension of the statewide restrictions will now expire on January 11, 2021. The airport's dining options continue to operate with to-go only food. Shops are open at 25% occupancy.

Dec. 28, 2020

• Due to the new variant of COVID-19 in the United Kingdom, CDC issued an Order effective Dec. 28, 2020 requiring all air passengers arriving to the US from the UK to get tested no more than three days before their flight departs and to provide proof of the negative result to the airline before boarding the flight. For more information on this testing requirement, see the CDC's Frequently Asked Questions. Local CDC/CBP will conduct spot checks of arriving passengers at SEA to confirm the proof of a negative COVID-19 test. Additionally, Governor Inslee’s travel proclamation requiring a 14-day quarantine upon arrival in Washington state for travelers from the UK remains in place. 

Dec. 21, 2020

• Gov. Jay Inslee issued a 14-day quarantine requirement for anyone returning to Washington state after visiting the United Kingdom, South Africa and other countries where a new variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, 501Y.V, is circulating. Health experts believe this new variant may be more transmissible than other variants. The order applies to anyone who has been present in these countries within the prior 14 days. All individuals who are impacted by this order are strongly encouraged to be tested within seven days of returning to Washington.
• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update for Dec. 21, 2020. We are increasing our public information campaign during the holiday season and asking travelers to come prepared to comply with healthy travel measures. Be informed and ready with these travel tips and resources.

Dec. 15, 2020

• We are continuing our globally accredited FlyHealthy@SEA program and encourages passengers to come prepared to comply with healthy travel measures if you're traveling this month. Current projections expect a lower average number of daily travelers than the Thanksgiving holiday; however, more total passengers due to the longer holiday travel period. Read this press release on guidance for holiday travel and passenger volume projections. 

Dec. 11, 2020

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update for Dec. 11, 2020. We are increasing our public information campaign during the holiday season and asking travelers to come prepared to comply with healthy travel measures. Be informed and ready with these travel tips and resources.

Dec. 7, 2020

• The FlyHealthy@SEA Action Plan details the airport’s actions to protect you now and the work underway for the next phase of traveling safely in our new normal. The program will continue to evolve in 2021.

Dec. 3, 2020

• The Washington State Department of Health is adopting the new CDC guidelines to reduce quarantine for people who have been exposed to COVID-19. Both the Washington State Department of Health and CDC currently recommend a quarantine period of 14 days, but there are circumstances that allow for a shortened quarantine, including if a person who is in quarantine has no symptoms, quarantine can end after Day 10, and if a person who is in quarantine receives a negative COVID-19 test and has no symptoms, quarantine can end after Day 7. Get tested within 48 hours before ending quarantine. Learn more from Washington State Department of Health.

Dec. 1, 2020

• Washington state recently announced the adoption of a joint Apple/Google exposure notification system. The new system, WA Notify, is available to Washington state residents or visitors using a smartphone to alert users if they may have been exposed to COVID-19. Learn more on how it works and how it will help.

Nov. 25, 2020

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update for Nov. 25, 2020. We are increasing our public information campaign during the holiday season and asking travelers to come prepared to comply with healthy travel measures. Be informed and ready with these travel tips and resources.

Nov. 23, 2020

• We support the guidance from public health officials to not travel for Thanksgiving, but we prepared for the passengers choosing to go on trips that couldn’t wait. We are increasing our public information campaign during the holiday season and asking travelers to come prepared to comply with healthy travel measures. Stay home if you are sick, expect to wear a facial covering for the duration of your journey, wash or sanitize your hands frequently, and honor physical distancing. Get travel tips for the 2020 holidays.
• The CDC updated its guidance for after you travel internationally, including getting tested after higher risk travel. Testing before and after travel can reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. Testing does not eliminate all risk, but when paired with a period of staying at home and everyday precautions like wearing masks and social distancing, it can make travel safer. 

Nov. 17, 2020

• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is ready to meet the new COVID-19 health measures outlined in guidance from Washington state Gov. Inslee for a four-week statewide set of restrictions in response to the recent rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus in the state and across the country. Read further on our latest actions and guidance for what you need to know.
• Eat and shop with confidence because airport restaurants and retailers are also going above and beyond to protect your health and well-being. See what’s open and how you dine, imbibe, and shop is different the next time you travel.

Nov. 16, 2020

• The TSA launched a “Travel With Ease” campaign to urge airline passengers to enroll in TSA PreCheck® prior to holiday travel.

Nov. 13, 2020

• Gov. Jay Inslee issued a travel advisory for Washington today, recommending a 14-day quarantine for interstate and international travel and asks residents to stay close to home. Inslee joined California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Oregon Gov. Kate Brown in urging visitors entering their states or returning home from travel outside these states to self-quarantine to slow the spread of the virus.
• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update for Nov. 13, 2020. Be informed on your health and holiday travel. We urge anyone with essential travel plans to embrace measures to limit the spread of COVID-19. Stay home if you are sick, expect to wear a facial covering for the duration of your journey, wash or sanitize your hands frequently, and honor physical distancing.

Nov. 4, 2020

• Travelers seeking a COVID-19 test prior to air travel now have a new option with Discovery Health MD who offer testing for ticketed travelers at SEA. Find more information our COVID-19 testing pilot program and COVID-19 testing options.

Nov. 2, 2020

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update for Nov. 2, 2020 to stay up to date on actions to ensure the health and well-being of passengers and workers. Travelers seeking a COVID-19 test prior to air travel have a new option beginning Nov. 4 when Discovery Health MD starts offering testing for ticketed travelers at SEA.

Oct. 16, 2020

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update for October 16, 2020 to stay up to date on actions to ensure the health and well-being of passengers and workers. This issue covers COVID-19 testing and travel. 

Oct. 7, 2020

• Hawaii announced trusted testing and travel partners for a COVID-19 pre-travel testing program that starts October 15. Learn more

Oct. 2, 2020

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update for October 2, 2020 to stay up to date on actions to ensure the health and well-being of passengers and workers. As part of the continued effort to provide a safe and healthy environment for the traveling public, FlyHealthy@SEA achieved Global Health Accreditation under the Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Health Accreditation program. SEA is the first airport on the West Coast to earn the accreditation.

Oct. 1, 2020

• To help guests prepare for Hawaii's pre-travel testing program, Alaska Airlines will partner with Carbon Health to offer rapid COVID-19 testing at its pop-up clinics across the West Coast, starting Oct. 12 in Seattle. Hawaii will begin to welcome back visitors on Oct. 15 by allowing out-of-state travelers to enjoy the islands without a 14-day quarantine when they test negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours of their final leg of departure to Hawaii. Learn more
• SEA is partnering with Sound Transit and the COMTO Washington Chapter to ensure that passengers are wearing masks and have access to free masks as part of FlyHealthy@SEA. Stop by the Information Desk on ticketing or ask one of our customer experience Pathfinders in green if you need a mask.  

Sept. 25, 2020

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update for September 25, 2020 to stay up to date on actions to ensure the health and well-being of passengers and workers. We are ready for you when you’re ready to travel, but we understand everyone has a different comfort level about returning to the airport. This week, thank you to our partners for sharing their recent experiences at the airport. Additionally, SEA Managing Director Lance Lyttle joined Governor Jay Inslee, Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines for a press conference to announce the Governor’s new “Commercial Service Airport Requirements” for Washington state. These requirements were developed in consultation with airport operators, and mirror the measures we have undertaken through our FlyHealthy@SEA action plan.

Sept. 17, 2020 

• Hawaii will introduce a pre-travel testing program for COVID-19 to start October 15. Pre-travel testing enables travelers to avoid a mandatory 14-day quarantine if they are tested no earlier than 72 hours before their flight arrives. Travelers also will have their temperatures checked upon arrival in Hawaii and must fill out a travel and health form. Upon arrival in Hawaii, passengers unable to provide proof of an approved negative test will be required to go into quarantine for 14 days or until they can provide proof of negative test results. Learn more 

Sept. 14, 2020 

• Federal Government Adjusts COVID-19 Entry Screening Protocols for International Air Passengers: Effective Sept. 14, enhanced entry health screening for international passengers has halted along with the requirement for directing all flights carrying airline passengers at 1 of 15 designated airports (including SEA) is no longer in effect and all airports can accept international travelers again.

Sept. 11, 2020 

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update for September 11, 2020 to stay up to date on actions to ensure the health and well-being of passengers and workers. SEA is preparing for the fall and winter by doubling down on disinfecting. At the beginning of COVID-19, we escalated an already robust cleaning program to ensure frequent disinfection with medical-grade and EPA approved cleaning products. We added an emphasis on high-touch areas such as buttons, handrails, and counters. And that was just the beginning. SEA continues to add new and better solutions for cleaning. This week we shared six clean tech strategies you will see at our airport, including autonomous floor cleaning machines, electrostatic sprayers, and cleaning systems that disinfect escalator hand railings.

Sept. 8, 2020

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced plans for reopening Trusted Traveler Programs enrollment centers to the public on September 8. The reopening plans were developed in consultation with CBP health and safety experts and include measures to minimize the risk of exposing travelers and CBP personnel to COVID-19. Learn more

Friday, August 14

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA update for August 14, 2020
• This is a reminder that SEA requires face coverings or masks, which must be worn over the nose and mouth. Thank you for helping us to reach 93 percent compliance! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), masks with exhalation valves or vents should not be worn to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Some airlines require masks on all flights regardless of medical exemptions. Travelers should check with their airline to understand this requirement before travel. You may be asked by TSA to adjust your mask for ID verification or if it alarms the security screening equipment.

Thursday, August 6

• In coordination with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Department of State lifted the Global Level 4 Health Advisory. The Global Advisory, initially put in place on March 19, 2020, advised U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. With health and safety conditions improving in some countries and potentially deteriorating in others, the Department is returning to its previous system of country-specific levels of travel advice (with Levels from 1-4 depending on country-specific conditions), in order to give travelers detailed and actionable information to make informed travel decisions. This will also provide U.S. citizens with information about the current status in each country. The Department continues to recommend U.S. citizens exercise caution when traveling abroad due to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic. Learn more

Friday, July 31

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update for July 31, 2020

Thursday, July 30

• Alaska Airlines plans to start reopening its lounges on Aug. 1. Currently, only the D Concourse lounge is open, but effective Aug. 1 the North Satellite lounge will be reopening. Learn more 

Friday, July 24

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update for July 24, 2020

Tuesday, July 21

• Today, New York Governor Cuomo announced travel restrictions for individuals arriving from 10 additional states, including Washington state. Read more about New York's travel requirements here. 
• No matter where you are traveling, please be aware of COVID-19 procedures at your destination before you go. If you have further questions, contact your airline.

Friday, July 17

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update for July 17, 2020

Friday, July 10

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update for July 10, 2020
• Checkpoint 1 is temporarily closed, all TSA Pre✓®  passengers will have to use Checkpoint 4 in the interim. For international travelers the Federal Inspection Checkpoint at the South Satellite is closed. All international arriving passengers will exit, check luggage, and go through screening at the main terminal. Please use our interactive map for step-by-step directions for navigating around the terminal and for more information and other advisories please see our Airport Traveler Updates.

Monday, July 6

• The USO will re-open with limited overnight hours on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. 

Friday, July 2

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update for July 2, 2020

Wednesday, July 1

• The South Satellite Club at SEA Lounge re-opened on July 1 featuring an upgraded experience with fresh paint and new furniture. Learn more about the lounges at SEA here. 

Friday, June 26

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update for June 26, 2020

Wednesday, June 24

• On June 24, 2020, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut issued a combined Tri-State incoming travel advisory that individuals traveling from states with significant community spread of COVID-19 must self-quarantine for 14-days. Washington state is not on the list. We do not meet the risk criteria and were previously listed in error. Please contact your airline about your flight if this impacts your travel plans.
• The B and C Train Stations are re-open. Physical distancing can be difficult to maintain on the trains and at the platforms. Wear a face covering or mask.  If you’re uncomfortable with the congestion, other options include waiting for next train that is just 2-3 minutes away, or walking between concourses when possible.

Monday, June 22

• Delta Air Lines will re-start service between Seattle and Shanghai-Pudong via Seoul-Incheon on June 25, operating twice per week. From July and beyond, it will operate once-weekly flights from Seattle and Detroit, also via Incheon. Delta is the first U.S. airline to re-connect the U.S. and China since the temporary suspension in February due to the outbreak of COVID-19.

Friday, June 12

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update for June 19, 2020.

Friday, June 12

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update for June 12, 2020.

Thursday, June 11

• Watch our FlyHealthy@SEA video with how we're ensuring your health and actions you can take. 

Friday, June 5

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update for June 5, 2020.

Monday, June 1

• Pre-book and pay for your SEA Airport parking online for a safe and contact-less transaction prior to your arrival. By booking in advance, you can save 25% on current drive-up parking rates. Pre-book your parking today.
• Security checkpoint 5 has reopened. It is open from 4:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Visit our checkpoint hours of operation page for more information.

Friday, May 22

• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update for May 29, 2020.
• Dining and retail tenants at SEA are taking action to implement new procedures and pilot new technology to ensure the health of passengers and employees. Watch this video and read this press release.

Wednesday, May 27

• Traveling abroad or returning to the U.S.? The U.S. State Department provides the latest information on travel advisories and alerts and country-specific COVID-19 information. Check these resources before planning your travels. 

Friday, May 22

• The C Train Station is closed from the evening of May 22 until June 15, 2020. Please use the interactive map for step-by-step directions for navigating around the terminal. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience.
• Read the FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update for May 22, 2020.

Thursday, May 21

• TSA announced changes to security screening at airports nationwide that reduce the potential for cross-contamination and help prevent the spread of COVID-19. New security procedures advise separate food for X-ray screening, keep possession of your boarding pass, practice physical distancing and wear facial covering. Learn more. 

Friday, May 15

• Welcome to FlyHealthy @ SEA. Stay up to date on actions we’re taking to support public health at SEA and learn about our commitment to a culture of safety and well-being. Today we launched the first FlyHealthy@SEA weekly update, which we are producing each Friday moving forward.

Thursday, May 14

• Effective May 18, the Port will require all passengers, visitors, and airport workers to wear face coverings over their mouths and noses in public areas of the airport, subject to certain limited exceptions, until further notice. Travelers should wear their face coverings throughout the airport, including during the TSA screening process, but be prepared to adjust their face coverings so that officers can visually confirm their identity during checkpoint screening.
  • For more details including applicable exceptions, read the Port’s policy.

Saturday, May 9

• Effective May 18, all passengers, visitors, and workers, including Port employees, will be required to wear face coverings in the public areas of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Learn more.

Friday, May 8

• On May 7, 2020, TSA announced that its employees are required to wear facial protection while at screening checkpoints. For more details, read the full announcement. 
• As of April 5, 2020, the Port has supported its employees in wearing face coverings throughout Port properties while they are working, following CDC recommendations for the general public. Two cloth face coverings were provided to essential, non-teleworking employees assigned throughout Port sites on April 17. 

Monday, April 27

• Security Checkpoints 1 and 5 are closed until further notice. All TSA Pre✓® passengers will have to process through Checkpoint 4.
• The checkpoint at the South Satellite for international arriving passengers is also closed until further notice; travelers who are connecting after passport control will have to exit to the pre-secure side of the airport to check-in luggage and screen at the main terminal.

Tuesday, April 14 

• Please be advised beginning this week, SEA’s Lost & Found office will be closed on weekends and on Memorial Day (May 25, 2020). Airport Lost and Found services are available to customers Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  

Tuesday, April 7

• Checkpoint 5 is closed until further notice. 

Monday, April 6

• Airline passengers are allowed to wear cloth face coverings during the TSA screening process. Passengers should be prepared to adjust their masks so that a TSA officer can visually confirm their identity during the checkpoint screening process.

Friday, April 3

• The B Train Station is closed until further notice, please use our interactive map for step-by-step directions for navigating around the terminal. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience.

Saturday, March 28

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a domestic travel advisory for New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut urges residents of those states to refrain from non-essential domestic travel for 14 days effective immediately.
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is open and operational.

Thursday, March 26

• SEA Airport is operating with lighter passenger volumes and enhanced disinfection and personal hygiene protocols in place. Some airport restaurants are open with reduced operating hours and food service only for grab-and-go and orders to go. Read more about adjustments to dining and retail.
• The international arrivals process for passengers entering the United States from certain countries has been adjusted multiple times since the first global cases of coronavirus were discovered. Read more about the screening process at SEA Airport.

Wednesday, March 25

• Checkpoint 5 has been cleaned and re-opened this morning.
• The two Club at SEA lounges are closed until further notice.

Tuesday, March 24

• The state of Alaska is requiring that anyone entering Alaska must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival beginning March 25, 2020. The mandate applies to Alaska residents, workers and travelers.

Monday, March 23

• The Port of Seattle supports efforts to limit the spread of the Coronavirus while maintaining essential operations. In response to Governor Jay Inslee’s “stay at home” order, Port of Seattle Commission President Peter Steinbrueck made the following comment: “Critical Port facilities and operations are still open. We are doing everything we can to support those staying home, while keeping Port facilities safe for those who do essential work.”
• The Children's Play Area near the A Gates has been closed until further notice in order to help promote social distancing.
• CLEAR operational hours have been reduced at Checkpoints 1 and 3 and will now be open from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.
• Sound Transit is temporarily reducing service on Link light rail, Sounder trains, and ST Express routes operated by King County Metro due to COVID-19. With light rail ridership down nearly 70 percent, trains will continue to run every 14 minutes under temporary service reductions. Sound Transit has suspended fare requirements on buses and trains until further notice to help protect transit employees and riders through social distancing. Visit Sound Transit's page for more information.
• Hawaii is requiring travelers to the state to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. Hawaiian Airlines will suspend flights to Maui beginning March 27 and Honolulu beginning March 28.
• For international flights, additional route suspensions announced recently include Icelandair to Reykjavik until further notice and Cathay Pacific to Hong Kong through May. Emirates is suspending all passenger flights worldwide as of March 26 through April and British Air suspended daytime flights through April. 

Friday, March 20

• The U.S. State Department issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory, the agency’s highest alert level, encouraging all U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel. Those who are currently abroad are advised to return home.

Thursday, March 19

• Effective Saturday, March 21, 2020, the SEA Visitor Pass program is temporarily suspended due to COVID-19. 

Wednesday, March 18

• SEA Airport is operating with lighter passenger volumes, enhanced disinfection and personal hygiene protocols, and adjustments to dining and retail operations. 

Tuesday, March 17

• Today Port of Seattle Commission President Peter Steinbrueck, Executive Director Steve Metruck, and Airport Managing Director Lance Lyttle discussed how SEA is continuing its mission to serve the public and the steps being taken to keep the public safe during their travels. SEA is open and operating, but it is not business as usual right now. This time last year 50,000 passengers would be headed through security checkpoints at SEA at the beginning of the spring break travel season. Right now, the airport is averaging 16,000 passengers per day. Watch the press conference.
• SEA Airport is open with enhanced disinfection and personal hygiene protocols in place. Most airport dining and retail tenants are open for business, but with reduced operating hours and food service. Read about adjustments to dining and retail.

Monday, March 16

• Ireland and the U.K. were added to the existing travel restrictions on foreign nationals from European countries, Iran, and China. Americans, legal permanent residents, and their immediate families returning home from Ireland and the U.K. will also undergo enhanced entry screening, followed by a 14-day self-quarantine.
• Airport dining and retail tenants are open for business, but with reduced operating hours and food service. Restaurants are only open for grab-and-go and food orders to go. Passengers cannot sit in certain seating areas or at the bars. 
• The live music program is suspended until the end of March. 

Sunday, March 15

• SEA Airport welcoming international flights without major entry delays. Extra staff are onsite to help. International travelers must go through Customs before pick-up. Please be flexible and aware that this area may be busy over the next few days.
•  As of March 15, passengers are not experiencing an increase in customs wait times. Depending on visa or citizenship review, it may only be a few minutes through Global Entry, or 30 or more minutes based on the number of and length of reviews in line.

Friday, March 13

• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is open and operating. Learn five key tactics to stay healthy when you fly. 
• After midnight on Friday, March 13, 2020, and for the next 30 days, U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents and their immediate families returning home after recently visiting certain European countries (see list below), China, South Korea and Iran will have enhanced entry screening. The passenger will be asked about their medical history, current condition, and asked for contact info for local health authorities. Passengers will be given written guidance about COVID-19 and directed to immediately home-quarantine in accordance with CDC best practices if needed.
• The European countries include: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Thursday, March 12

• All USO Airport locations in the U.S. will temporarily suspend operations until further notice in order to maintain safe environments and avoid unnecessary risks of exposure. Visit the USO page for more information.

Wednesday, March 11

• The Governor and King County issued a health order limiting the number of people at events and mandated social distancing. Transportation systems (buses, light rail, ferries, and airports) are not included in the limit for the number of people; however, the Governor asked those transportation systems to increase vigilance, as they have been, to maintain frequent cleaning of their facilities.
• Here's how the Port is keeping our facilities clean and safe for you. 

Tuesday, March 10

• Traveling right now? To find the closest hand sanitizer to you, look for the yellow icon on our interactive map or download the SEA Airport mobile app and search ‘hand sanitizer.’ 
• Alaska Airlines shared new content for how the airline is keeping employees and guests safe.
• United announced no change fees for new bookings through April 30.

Monday, March 9

• The Port of Seattle installed 230 hand sanitizers in and around the terminal. This includes sanitizer stations at the checkpoints, in the sky bridges, common use ticket kiosks areas, the 3rd-floor garage areas where the TNCs are located (Uber, Lyft), and rental car bus stops. 
• In response to the spread of the virus, the Trump Administration has expanded travel restrictions, which include:

1. Raising the travel advisories for certain regions in Italy and South Korea to the highest level, Level 4 “Do Not Travel.   
2. Suspending entry of foreign nationals who have been in China, Iran, or any of the 26 countries within the EU’s Schengen Area* for the last 14 days (*Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland).

• Airport retail and dining tenants are open for business, but some have reduced operating hours. 

Tuesday, March 3

• SEA and the Port of Seattle announced enhanced protocols to maintain the safety, health, and well-being of passengers and employees using Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Sunday, March 1

• Delta Air Lines published its travel advisory and guidance for COVID-19.