November 14, 2022
By Aly Lande
As you rushed by the barricades in Central Terminal to catch your flight, have you wondered ... What? Why? When? Well, the barricades are coming down this week to reveal one of the most buzz-worthy and noticeable parts of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect for the work to reveal the new Central Terminal with a brand-new space, more seats, and exciting eats.
What’s happening?
This project ends several years of construction on the Central Terminal Renovation Project. The Phase 1 completion brought sweeping views of the airfield, new restaurants, ADA improvements, and better seating and charging areas. And the Marketplace gets a new life.
When is this happening?
This week! If you’re traveling the week of November 14-18, 2022, here’s what you need to know to navigate around the construction:
Monday, November 14: Closures after 7:00 p.m.
- Construction and work crews will be in the Central Terminal between 7:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
- Airport Dining and Retail options in the Central Terminal and surrounding spaces will be unavailable; restaurants will be closing early, around 7:00 p.m.
- Seating will not be available during construction and testing from 7:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
- TSA Security Checkpoint 3 will be closed from 8:00 p.m. to 3:30 a.m.
- TSA Security Checkpoints 2 and 4 will be available for passenger screening
- SEA Spot Saver will be available at Checkpoint 2 for appointments between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
Tuesday, November 15: No major impacts
- Construction and work crews may be in the area from 7:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
- No major impacts Tuesday night; all Dining and Retail options and TSA Security Checkpoint 3 will be operating normal hours
Wednesday-Friday, November 16-18: Closures after 7:00 p.m.
- Construction and work crews will be in the Central Terminal between 7:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
- Facility alarm testing and smoke control testing will happen for three nights
- Airport Dining and Retail options in and around the Central Terminal will be closing early, around 7:00 p.m.
- Seating will not be available during construction and testing from 7:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
- TSA Security Checkpoint 3 will be closed from 8:00 p.m. to 3:30 a.m.
- Checkpoints 2 and 4 will be available for passengers needing screening
- SEA Spot Saver will be available at Checkpoint 2 for appointments between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
Why are you telling me this?
Because we know this work may impact your airport journey. These helpful tips will help you prepare:
- Download the FlySEA app — The interactive map will be updated during construction and will provide the best step-by-step directions to help you avoid construction. Double check the TSA security checkpoint operations, hours, and wait times under the Security Screening section. Download now
- Use Security Checkpoint 2 for SEA Spot Saver between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
- Spot the signs and listen to overhead announcements to get to get to your destination quickly
- Use another method to get around, like the SEA Underground Yellow Line
We know construction can be an overwhelming experience and we appreciate your patience. The new and modern spaces, services, and amenities will be worth it — we promise!
Not only will you get back the airfield views from the Central Terminal, but you will also gain more light from the window wall and more seating and charging areas. But the most exciting improvements will be a new fine dining experience with Salty’s at the SEA and BrewTop Social, a craft brewery featuring the best of our region. The Central Terminal will also host a brand-new Centurion Lounge by American Express. Stay tuned to learn more about those openings!
A great airport ahead
While we’re thrilled to be named a 4-Star airport by Skytrax, we’re not relaxing just yet. We’re focusing on a better experience for you and building a great airport that will elevate your travel experience every day. After the Central Terminal is complete, a new initiative to build your airport of the future begins. The launch of Upgrade SEA will begin to upgrade facilities, services and amenities, and makes your travel experience predictable and easy.
- Take a look at the construction that’s currently underway for Upgrade SEA.
And stay up to date on your airport by subscribing to FlySEA newsletter.
