So You Wanna Fly in (or Out) of Seattle? A Guide to the Emerald City's Landing Pads
Ah, Seattle! The land of grunge, rain (sometimes), and yes, airplanes. But if you're planning a trip to this fair city, you might be wondering: just where do all those metal birds land? Buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to take a hilarious (and informative) dive into the world of Seattle's airports.
What Are The Airports In Seattle |
The Big Kahuna: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
This guy is the king daddy (or should we say, king jumbo jet?) of Seattle's airports. Officially rocking the glam name of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), it's the busiest airport in the Pacific Northwest, so expect a bit of a hustle and bustle. Don't worry though, SEA is pretty efficient and has all the bells and whistles you'd expect from a major airport, including enough shops to distract you from that slightly overpriced airport coffee.
Fun Fact: SEA is actually located in a city called SeaTac. Mind. Blown.
The "Closer to Downtown" Option: Boeing Field (BFI)
If you're looking for a more boutique airport experience (read: less crowded), then Boeing Field (BFI) might be your wingman. Located closer to downtown Seattle, BFI is a great option for private jets, smaller airlines, and even the occasional seaplane (because, Seattle). Just keep in mind that BFI doesn't have the same level of commercial airline traffic as SEA, so your travel options might be a bit more limited.
QuickTip: A quick skim can reveal the main idea fast.
Bonus points for plane geeks: BFI is right next to the Boeing factory, so you might just catch a glimpse of a brand new dreamliner being built!
The "Hey, Those Aren't Airplanes, Those Are Birds!" Option: Lake Union
Alright, alright, so technically these aren't airports, but for the intrepid traveler (or the seaplane enthusiast), Lake Union deserves a mention. Nestled right in the heart of Seattle, this is where you'll find a hub for seaplane activity. Imagine taking off and landing on water? Pretty cool, right?
Word to the wise: Unless you're James Bond, don't expect to find commercial seaplane tours departing daily. However, if you do some research, you might be able to find a scenic flight or even a private charter.
QuickTip: Scroll back if you lose track.
So, Which Airport Should You Choose?
Honestly, it depends on your priorities, my friend. Need the most flight options? SEA is your best bet. Craving a more intimate airport experience? BFI might be a good fit. Want to pretend you're a secret agent and take off on a seaplane? Well, then you know where to go (although maybe pack a change of clothes, just in case).
Frequent Flyer FAQs
How to Get to Downtown Seattle from SEA?
There are several options, including light rail, buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services. Do a little research beforehand to pick the one that best suits your needs and budget.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.
How to Find Out What Airlines Fly into SEA?
The SEA website (
How to Find Cheap Flights to Seattle?
QuickTip: Use CTRL + F to search for keywords quickly.
We wish we had a magic answer for this one! But there are a number of flight comparison websites and apps that can help you score a good deal. Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying into a smaller airport like BFI if you have options.
How to Avoid Long Security Lines at SEA?
TSA PreCheck can be a lifesaver, but it does require applying for the program. Another tip? Try to fly during off-peak hours if possible.
How to Pack Light for Your Trip to Seattle?
Let's be real, Seattle is a pretty casual city. Ditch the fancy clothes and pack for comfort and layers (because the weather can be a bit unpredictable).
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