Seattle-Tacoma International Airport experienced significant growth in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic passenger numbers. The Port of Seattle reported that the airport welcomed 52.6 million passengers, a 2% increase from 2019's figures. International travel also saw an uptick, with a 15% rise in international passengers compared to 2019.
The airport introduced eight new international routes in 2024, including flights by China Airlines, Philippine Airlines, and STARLUX Airlines. Edelweiss Air recently began seasonal flights from Seattle to Zurich on June 2. Hamdi Mohamed of the Port of Seattle expressed excitement about this direct connection to Zurich.
SAS returned to Seattle on May 21 after a long hiatus since July 2009. Anko van der Werff, CEO of SAS, emphasized the historical ties between Seattle and Scandinavia. Ryan Calkins of the Port of Seattle highlighted cultural connections with Copenhagen.