The Port of Seattle has received significant news this week with the announcement that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved a Final Environmental Assessment (EA) and a Finding of No Significant Impact/Record of Decision (FONSI/ROD) for the proposed Sustainable Airport Master Plan Near-Term Projects (NTPs) at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).
This approval confirms that the FAA has determined that the NTPs align with existing environmental policies and guidelines established by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.
The review by the FAA concluded that these projects are not anticipated to significantly impact the quality of the human environment.
The Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP) serves as a strategic blueprint for future development at SEA, addressing essential needs such as passenger terminal and cargo capacity, aircraft delays, fuel storage, and compliance with FAA airfield standards.
The FAA’s assessment identified 17 findings that the Port must take into consideration while designing, constructing, and operating the proposed facilities, with the majority being standard business practices already in place at the Port and SEA.
One new condition highlighted by the FAA necessitates the Port to invest approximately $40 million in surface transportation improvements at 26 specific intersections, a move aimed at enhancing the local community’s infrastructure.
The improvements outlined in the SAMP are intended to expand the airport’s facilities within its existing footprint, effectively meeting both current demand and projected future needs.
The Port of Seattle emphasized that SEA is integral to the region’s quality of life and economic vitality.
To this end, the planned investments aim to ensure that SEA remains a functional and welcoming airport for travelers and airlines alike.
The Port is looking to implement a total of 31 NTPs designed to enhance SEA’s safety and efficiency, improve access, and bolster support facilities for airlines.
As the next step, a State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) review is set to be conducted for these proposed initiatives.
The Port plans to lead this process while actively seeking public input throughout the evaluation phase.
To facilitate community engagement, a public webinar will be held on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 6 p.m. to discuss the FAA’s Record of Decision and provide a preview of the upcoming steps in the SEPA review process.
Residents interested in participating in the virtual meeting can register online.
The Port Commission will receive an official briefing regarding the NTPs at their upcoming meeting scheduled for Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. in Pier 69, Seattle, WA.
Both hybrid and in-person testimony opportunities will be made available.
Another meeting on October 28, 2025, will take place at SEA, also allowing for hybrid and in-person testimony.
Details regarding public testimony, meeting locations, and agendas can be found on the Commission Meetings portal.
In addition, future open house meetings designed to gather community input on the Port’s draft SEPA environmental impact statement are planned for 2026.
For those wanting to review the Final EA and FONSI/ROD, physical copies will be accessible at various locations including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, the Port of Seattle headquarters, and local libraries through November 25, 2025.
These documents can be examined during regular business hours.
For further information on the Sustainable Airport Master Plan and to remain updated on the latest developments, interested parties can visit the dedicated SAMP website.
To receive regular updates via email, subscriptions can be made under the “Environment and Sustainability News” section on the website.
This approval marks a pivotal step toward enhancing Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s ability to meet the demands of travelers and the community effectively.
image source from：portseattle
