Sea-Tac Airport Reaches New Milestone in North Satellite Modernization Project

Seattle Tacoma International Airport celebrated a literal high-point in Phase 2 of the North Satellite Modernization Project earlier this week as the last and highest beam of the building was hoisted into place. The beam, signed by crew and dignitaries before being hoisted into place by a 260-foot crane, is a part of the 8-story ceiling over what will be the terminal’s central marketplace.

The highest beam of the new North Satellite Terminal at Sea-Tac was placed, marking a milestone for the modernization project. (Photo: AirlineGeeks } Katie Bailey)

“This is one of the most transformative projects at Sea-Tac,” commented Lance Lyttle, Managing Director of Sea-Tac, in a speech before the beam raising.” We’re moving fast towards the 2021 opening and are excited to share the progress with everyone today, we’re literally moving this facility ‪from the 20th to the 21st‬ century.”

The North Satellite Modernization Project Phase 1 opened in July with a new 240-foot addition that provided 10 new gates as well as four eateries. Soon after is completion, Alaska Airlines opened a new flagship lounge in the building on its second floor, increasing Alaska’s lounge capacity at Sea-Tac by 60 percent.

Sea-Tac officials and local dignitaries signing the beam about to be hoisted into place. (Photo: AirlineGeeks } Katie Bailey)

Diana Birkett Rakow, Alaska Airlines’ Vice President of External Relations, commented:  “Flying is magical and exciting and this building is like a temple to AvGeeks and kids of all ages that want to sit and look at the airport and there are many of us, I think, who would like to put our offices up over here.”

The aging North Satellite was long overdue for remodel as no major improvements have been made since it’s opening in 1973. The dark, cave-like interior lacked in amenities current day travelers require. Shortly after the Alaska Flagship Lounge opening, the original portion of the terminal closed to start Phase 2 of the modernization project, leaving around half of the building open for use.

Phase 2 of the massive overhaul is set to be completed in spring 2021 and will provide enhanced dining and retail options, a large open atrium marketplace, WiFi, a renovated baggage system, a signature restaurant and an increase to 20 gates.

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