How early should we arrive at SEA-TAC

[Cruise Suzy]

How much time at SEA-TAC should we allow before our 7AM flight on a July Monday? We managed to get first class on American at a bargain, if that makes a difference.  We don't have TSA Pre-check or Global Entry as we haven't flown since our Alaskan cruise in 2007. Normally we drive to Ft. Lauderdale to board cruises or take land-only trips. 

 

I know it's going to be a VERY early morning. I don't want to make the day longer than it needs to be - but I also don't want to miss getting on the plane!

[CruiserBruce]

I would make sure I am in the airport at least 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure. Yes, you could cut it a little tighter, but you don't know the airport.

[Cruise Suzy]

54 minutes ago, CruiserBruce said:

I would make sure I am in the airport at least 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure. Yes, you could cut it a little tighter, but you don't know the airport.

 

I wouldn't arrive later than 90 minutes beforehand that's for sure. I was hoping that it wouldn't be longer than 2 hours.

[Glaciers]

We used Spot Saver last year and it worked well. We were through TSA in 5 minutes.

https://www.portseattle.org/SEAspotsaver

 

[Ferry_Watcher]

Busiest times at SeaTac are early mornings, and summers are the busiest time of year.  @Glaciers suggestion of downloading the SeaTac app and using the Spot Saver feature is a great idea.  

[coastcat]

Regarding SpotSaver and gates - all the gates are connected airside so you can use any of them! For early morning flights, SpotSaver reservations are available at three of the gates starting at 5am.

 

Yes, SeaTac is very busy early in the morning and later in the evening. Don't be surprised by the long lines at 5:30am. 

Edited January 15, 2022 by coastcat

[Cruise Suzy]

Thanks all. Have bookmarked SpotSaver. Those of us needing to get back to the other coast do have to "get up before dawn"! Will make sure our hotel's airport shuttle starts running at 5AM or before.

[ginmil]

We live and fly out of Seattle a lot. If you are not TSA pre check or clear, I recommend 3 hours. Seattle is VERY busy, if you get through in record time with security, go to an airline club or relax with many food options. SeaTac is a nice airport.

[herdhopeful07]

If you have American First Class most airports have a shorter TSA line for First Class passengers.