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
Domestic Travelers | International Travelers |
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Arrive two hours before your departure time. | Arrive three hours before your departure time. |
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:
TSA Checkpoint |
Screening Type Available |
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TSA Checkpoint 1 |
Opening soon |
TSA Checkpoint 2 |
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR |
TSA Checkpoint 3 |
General and Premium Screening, Clear, and SEA Spot Saver |
TSA Checkpoint 4 |
General and Premium screening, CLEAR, SEA Spot Saver, and SEA Visitor Pass |
TSA Checkpoint 5 |
TSA PreCheck and Clear |
TSA Checkpoint 6 |
Currently closed |
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.
Domestic Trusted Traveler Programs: | International Trusted Traveler Programs: |
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