Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) celebrates its 75th Anniversary, ahead of what’s expected to be a record-breaking year. Over 52 million passengers will go through SEA this year, breaking 2019’s all-time high. Of course, that’s a dramatic difference from 75 years ago, when the first recorded year saw just over 130,000 passengers go through a brand-new airport. Today’s lucky travellers will be greeted with special pop-up displays and surprises throughout the terminal in honour of the big day. SEA has been sharing historical moments and milestones yearly to commemorate its diamond anniversary.
“Compared to the 30,000 people who attended the airport’s opening day ceremony in 1949, SEA now serves an average of 140,000 passengers daily,” said Port of Seattle Commission Vice President Toshiko Hasegawa. “SEA plays an important role in our region, as it is the primary airport serving the international travel needs of our communities. As it continues to evolve to meet the public’s needs, we are excited to celebrate this milestone for travel and a globally connected community.”
Then and now numbers:
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The original 1949 terminal had eight gates. Today SEA has 89 gates.
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130,549 passengers went through the airport in the first calendar year of operations in 1948. Today, SEA averages 140,000 passengers per day!
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SEA broke the one million passenger mark in 1954. In 2023, 50.8 million passengers went through SEA, and 2024 is expected to be the largest year ever, breaking the 2019 record of 51.8 million passengers.
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Japan Airlines was the first foreign overseas airline to operate at SEA in 1959. Today, 25 airlines offer 51 nonstop international services to 33 destinations.
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