The $5 Billion expansion controversy: what homebuyers need to know

The Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP)

Sea-Tac is in the midst of implementing its Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP), a massive expansion programme that includes:

• 19 new gates to handle growing passenger demand

• 31 near-term projects scheduled for completion by 2032

• Expanded cargo facilities for Amazon and other shippers

• New taxiways and infrastructure improvements

The FAA approved the environmental assessment for SAMP, but community groups argue the review was inadequate.

Community opposition intensifies

Neighbourhoods surrounding Sea-Tac have mounted significant opposition to the expansion, arguing that:

• Increased flights will worsen already-severe noise pollution

• Larger aircraft (including more widebody jets) create more noise

• NextGen flight paths have concentrated traffic over specific communities

• Property values are declining in affected areas

• Health impacts from noise and pollution are being ignored

The Airport Community Coalition and other groups have lobbied Congress, with some legislators introducing packages to address aviation noise concerns.

Legal action over flight paths

Residents in Burien have previously taken legal action against the FAA over flight path changes. Like communities near LAX and Phoenix, Seattle-area residents argue that NextGen technology concentrated flights into narrower corridors, dramatically increasing noise for homes directly underneath.

"No Added Harm" campaign

Community groups have organised under the banner of "No Added Harm", demanding that any expansion include meaningful noise mitigation. Their concerns include:

• Calls for an independent health study on noise and pollution impacts

• Demands for a nighttime curfew on flights

• Requests for soundproofing assistance for affected homes

• Push for the Port of Seattle to consider alternative growth strategies

Understanding Sea-Tac's flight operations

Third runway impact

Sea-Tac's third runway, opened in 2008, was itself controversial. Communities south of the airport—particularly Des Moines—were promised that the runway would reduce noise by allowing more efficient operations. Instead, residents report that overall traffic has increased and noise remains severe.

Flight frequency

Unlike some airports with distinct peak periods, Sea-Tac operates at high capacity throughout the day:

• Flights every few minutes during peak hours

• Early morning cargo flights from Amazon and other shippers

• Red-eye arrivals from Asia and the East Coast

• Limited overnight quiet period compared to some airports

Weather patterns

Seattle's weather affects flight operations:

• Low clouds and fog can delay or reroute flights

• Wind direction determines runway configuration

• Mountain wave turbulence from the Cascades affects some approaches

Sea-Tac Noise Resources

The Port of Seattle provides noise-related resources:

• Sea-Tac Noise Programs – Information on noise monitoring and complaints

• Airport Community Ecology (ACE) Fund – Mitigation programmes for affected communities

• Part 150 Noise Study – Periodic noise exposure mapping

• Flight Tracker – Real-time and historical flight path data

Community resources include:

• Sea-Tac Noise Info (seatacnoise.info) – Community-run noise monitoring

• Quiet Skies Coalition – Advocacy group for affected residents

However, these tools are designed for current residents - not for homebuyers trying to evaluate a property before purchase. A comprehensive My Flight Path report analyses historical data across multiple time periods to give you an accurate picture of what to expect.

How to Check Flight Paths Before Buying in Seattle

Seattle's competitive housing market means buyers often make quick decisions. Before purchasing anywhere near Sea-Tac—which includes much of South Seattle, Burien, Des Moines, and surrounding areas—consider:

• Current noise levels – Some areas experience flights every 2-3 minutes

• Expansion impacts – The SAMP will increase traffic over the next decade

• Time of day patterns – Cargo flights operate on different schedules than passenger flights

• Property value trends – Some affected areas have seen values decline relative to quieter neighbourhoods

A comprehensive flight path report analyses historical data from the airport to show you what to expect.

Frequently asked questions

How far from Sea-Tac can you hear aircraft noise?

Significant noise extends 10-15 miles from the airport. Beacon Hill, about 8 miles north, reports flights every few minutes during peak hours.

Does aircraft noise affect property values near Sea-Tac?

Studies show airport noise typically reduces property values by 5-15%. Some Sea-Tac area residents report difficulty selling homes or significant price reductions due to noise.

Will the expansion make noise worse?

The SAMP expansion will increase flight capacity. While the Port of Seattle claims new aircraft are quieter, community groups argue that more flights—even with quieter planes—means more total noise.

What about Burien specifically?

Burien is one of the most affected communities and has been at the forefront of legal action against the FAA. If you're considering property in Burien, a detailed flight path report is essential.

Are there any quiet times?

Sea-Tac operates 24/7, though traffic is lighter in the early morning hours (roughly 1am-5am). However, cargo flights from Amazon and international arrivals can disrupt even these quiet periods.

Is there a nighttime curfew?

Unlike some international airports, Sea-Tac does not have a mandatory nighttime curfew. Community groups have advocated for one, but the Port of Seattle has resisted.

Check before you buy

Don't let aircraft noise turn your dream home into a regret. Get a detailed My Flight Path Flight Blight Report for any Seattle affected address before you make an offer.