SEATTLE - The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is prepared for high passenger volumes leading up to the Memorial Day weekend. TSA projects it will screen more than 365,000 departing travelers at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) from Thursday, May 23 through Tuesday, May 28. This is a 9.6% increase over 2023 volumes.
The two busiest days at SEA are projected to be Thursday, May 23 when more than 69,000 travelers are expected to be screened through the security checkpoints and Friday, May 24 when TSA expects to screen more than 70,000 people.
The busiest times at the checkpoint daily will be 4 a.m. to 8 a.m.; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. All travelers will need to arrive early and prepared for every step of the air travel experience.
“We want to assure those traveling out of SEA during the Memorial Day weekend that TSA has plans in place to make the security screening process as streamlined as possible. With the temporary closure of security checkpoint 3, TSA will have all other security checkpoints and lanes in the airport staffed and open,” said TSA Federal Security Director for Washington Greg Hawko. “However, with reduced screening capacity, it is crucial that all travelers listen to directions given by airport customer service staff as well as TSA officers to make the airport experience go smoothly.”
Travel tips
Here are some tips to help all travelers have a smooth trip through the security checkpoint at any airport:
- Arrive at the airport early so you can complete every step of the airport process. Allow ample time to park, navigate to the terminal, check luggage and proceed through the TSA security screening checkpoint and get to the gate. Keep in mind, most flights board 30-45 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
- Be prepared for any scenario. Have your photo identification and boarding pass ready prior to entering the security checkpoint. This will keep you from slowing down the screening process for you and everyone behind you.
- Listen to directions provided by TSA officers. The advisements are specific to the type of screening you will experience. The information given will make your screening experience quicker and smoother.
- Pack smart. Always start with an empty bag to ensure you don’t inadvertently bring prohibited items to the security checkpoint. Place electronics larger than a cell phone and travel size liquids at the top of your carry-on so they can be easily access if you are required to remove them. Also, be sure that all liquids are 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less if transporting them through the security checkpoint.
- Get assistance prior to traveling. Ensure that carry-ons do not contain prohibited items since they slow down the security screening process. To determine whether an item is allowed or prohibited in carry-on luggage, download the MyTSA app and use the “What Can I Bring?” feature. Another option is to snap a picture of an item and send it to @AskTSA on Twitter or Facebook Messenger for real-time assistance. Travelers can also send a question by texting “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872).
- Double-check your luggage. Many bags look alike. Prior to traveling, passengers should tag every piece of luggage with their name and address and include additional addresses inside each bag in the event the outside tag falls off. When retrieving luggage at baggage claim, it’s important for passengers to check these tags to ensure they’ve picked up the correct bag.