Seattle-Tacoma International Airport sees resurgence with new international routes

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Seattle-Tacoma International Airport sees resurgence with new international routes

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Anko van der Werff, CEO of SAS | Official Website

By Sky Industry News

Jul 12, 2025

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.

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In summer 2022, Finnair and Turkish Airlines launched services to Seattle. Turkish Airlines began its service on May 27, while Finnair started flights from Helsinki on June 1. Lance Lyttle previously noted Turkish Airlines' expansion plans for connecting travelers globally.

Air Tahiti Nui commenced operations on October 7, offering one-stop connections from Papeete to Paris via Los Angeles after initially flying directly from Seattle to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.

China Airlines resumed its Taipei-Seattle route on July 14, while STARLUX Airlines inaugurated its first flight from Taipei to Seattle on August 16. Philippine Airlines launched non-stop flights from Manila to Seattle in October 2024 and plans increased frequency later this year.

Qatar Airways maintained its commitment despite the pandemic by launching direct flights between Doha and Seattle starting January 29, 2021. Akbar Al Baker highlighted Qatar Airways' dedication to enhancing US connectivity.

As of July, nine airlines have scheduled weekly departures from Seattle to various global destinations.