Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is preparing for a significant surge in passenger traffic during the holiday season. The airport anticipates managing over two million passengers through New Year's Day, with Thursday and Friday expected to be the busiest days. On Thursday, SEA expects 164,000 travelers, while Friday may see up to 172,000 passengers.
Christian Murdock shared his travel strategy with KING 5 News, stating: “I always try and get there really early just because I'd rather be on the other side and do work and, you know, catch up on things without the stress. It was a little crowded or congested coming into the terminal.”
The airport faces challenges with congestion at entry points due to vehicles idling as they wait for passenger pickups. Perry Cooper, SEA's spokesperson, explained their efforts to mitigate this issue: “So, we have been putting up blockage in our space where we can do that, and we've been trying to work with the state patrol; they have their own rules for what state highways can do, so we’re hoping to have some additional solutions there.” They are considering increasing fines from $55 for rule violators.