Current status: No additional federal officers have been deployed to SEA to backfill gaps in Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staffing.
At Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), the safety and security of our community is our number one priority. This includes our passengers, airport workers, partners, and all those who pass through our doors.
We understand there is increased concern related to recent immigration enforcement activity by federal agencies locally and around the country. The Port of Seattle, which owns and operates SEA, reaffirms its commitment to being a welcoming gateway for people and commerce. For additional transparency, we’ve answered some common questions about immigration enforcement activity at the airport.
Can federal immigration agents access SEA?
SEA is a public-use airport subject to federal regulation. Federal agents have broad access to airport property, including access to the airfield, pre- and post-security areas in the terminal, and public spaces like the parking garage and drives. SEA follows all federal laws and regulations. We expect that all federal officers (including Customs and Border Protection and TSA) will continue to do their best to keep SEA running smoothly and will act with professionalism and respect.
Can the Port limit actions by federal agencies at SEA?
The Port cannot interfere with law enforcement operations by federal agencies, including the TSA, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). We also cannot limit access for federal agencies to airport properties, except those restricted to Port employees. Access to areas restricted to Port employees or tenants and their employees requires a judicial warrant or other authority to enter.
Can the Port confirm information about immigration enforcement at SEA?
CBP staff regularly operate at SEA for immigration enforcement of passenger and cargo flights. We do not receive advance notice of additional immigration enforcement activity at SEA. Only the Department of Homeland Security can confirm cases or incidents.
Does the Port of Seattle Police Department (POSPD) conduct immigration enforcement?
No. POSPD does not conduct immigration enforcement, nor does it receive advance notice of the activity. POSPD’s focus is on providing a safe and secure environment for the SEA community.
Can the Port stop federal agencies from using SEA for flights and other activities related to immigration enforcement?
No. SEA is a public-use airport subject to federal regulation. The Port cannot legally restrict access to SEA for public or private aircraft operations — including aircraft chartered for federal government purposes. The Port Commission has called upon our federal agencies for greater transparency regarding data-sharing practices that affect all travelers at SEA. We will continue to engage with our congressional delegation, federal partners, local organizations, and the larger community to ensure SEA reflects the values of inclusion and dignity.
Can the Port share information about upcoming federal immigration enforcement flights?
SEA Airport officials are not made aware of federal immigration authorities conducting deportations via commercial aircraft, nor do they authorize or disallow these actions. The Port has no jurisdiction over CBP or ICE operations, no control over use of commercial airlines for deportation at our facilities, and no access to the identifying information of any passengers on commercial flights, including those undergoing deportation.
How are visa or green card holders or Lawful Permanent Residents impacted when traveling internationally?
The Port does not have control over operations or entry requirements for arriving international passengers, nor does the Port have any authority over the detention or deportation of arriving international passengers who are deemed inadmissible. The passenger inspection processes for arriving international travelers within the International Arrivals Facility are entirely and exclusively controlled by CBP.
Understand your rights and know what to expect before you return to the United States and go through Customs. Review these considerations before traveling internationally.
Additional Information
Questions about immigration enforcement activities or cases should be directed to the appropriate federal agency.
In February 2026, the Port of Seattle Commission adopted two Orders reinforcing policies that develop protocols, protect civil rights, promote transparency, and uphold the values that make our region welcoming and inclusive.
- Order No. 2026-02 strengthened transparency and accountability in Port policing by ensuring Port police officers are clearly identifiable from federal agents and they provide advance notice of high-visibility training operations to prevent confusion among the public.
- Order No. 2026-03 makes clear that nonpublic Port property will not be used for civil immigration detention or enforcement support, except as required by law.
“Know Your Rights” External Resources
These additional community resources are available for you to learn more:
- Washington State Office of the Attorney General: Know Your Rights: Civil Immigration Enforcement in Washington
- Northwest Immigrant Rights Project: Know Your Rights resources
