Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is preparing a major overhaul of its S Concourse, with the project centered on more passenger space, improved boarding facilities and expanded amenities. 

The Port of Seattle Commission has authorized $1.1 billion in initial funding for the S Concourse Evolution (SCE) project. The full renovation is estimated to cost $2.5 billion and is part of the airport’s $5.5 billion Upgrade SEA program. 

Major construction is expected to start in 2027, with the project targeted for completion in 2034. 

S Concourse Expansion and Facilities 

The S Concourse dates to 1973 and primarily serves international travelers. The renovation will add approximately 150,000 square feet, including a new Upper Concourse Level. This expansion will allow SEA to add more passenger facilities within the airport’s existing footprint.

Selected gates will receive improved dual-level boarding facilities, creating more efficient boarding arrangements. The project will also improve the passenger experience by expanding:

• Dining options
• Retail space
• Lounge facilities
• Passenger amenities
• Passenger circulation areas

The renovation will also modernize the concourse’s structural, seismic, and building systems. These upgrades will help bring the aging facility up to current standards while improving its overall functionality. 

Energy and Environmental Improvements

The project includes several upgrades designed to reduce energy use and the concourse’s environmental impact. SEA is targeting LEED Silver certification and expects the project to reduce annual operational greenhouse gas emissions by 58% and annual energy use by 16%, compared with Port of Seattle standards. 

Key building and sustainability features will include:

• High-performance exterior enclosure and glazing to improve building efficiency
• Improved lighting and building management systems
• Electrical equipment designed to reduce reliance on fossil fuels 
• Low-flow plumbing fixtures to conserve water
• EV charging for aircraft service equipment
• Reuse of building materials to reduce waste and resource consumption

Construction Will Take Place in Phases

SEA will keep the S Concourse operating during the renovation by carrying out the work in stages. The project is expected to take about eight years. A temporary S Annex will be constructed east of the existing concourse to support ground boarding when construction affects gates. The S Concourse has 12 gates, and the Port of Seattle expects no more than three gates to be affected by construction at any one time. As each phase is completed, renovated areas will reopen to passengers. The entire project is currently expected to be finished in 2034.

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