Local

NOW OPEN: SEA Airport’s North Satellite upgrade brings new look, lots of amenities

After nearly 50 years of use, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s North Satellite has new gates, a new look and lots of amenities to update the 1970s facility.

The $700-million renovation of the facility, which has nearly doubled in size, was just completed and the upgraded space is now fully open.

Pacific Northwest-inspired art installations include “Boundary,” a 60-foot high life-sized sculpture of the root structure of an old-growth Western Red Cedar. At 85 feet wide, it’s SEA’s largest art piece and made of reclaimed Alaska wood.

You’ll no longer have to hug the wall while charging your phone at an outlet. While you wait for your flight, there’s now enhanced Wi-Fi and a charger at every seat.

There are triple the number of restaurants and shops, and green features, including the use of rainwater collected from the roof, which is used for flushing water in restrooms.

A new food court, the Marketplace at N, has a stage for live performances and seating with airfield views.

“We went from seven concessions in the North Satellite up to 22 concessions, bringing in some big heavy hitters like Beecher’s, P.F. Chang’s and Filson. This is a big step for the passengers that will be flying out of the end gates,” said Port of Seattle Manager Charles Goedken.

Traveling mothers can use a nursing suite with three privacy rooms, a private restroom, sinks, changing tables and seating, and furry friends will welcome the airport’s first pet relief area when they need to answer nature’s call.

One of the biggest changes in what used to be a dark facility is now an open space with natural light and high ceilings.

With all the new changes, officials said the sustainability strategies and green building improvements is on track to accomplish a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification from the United States Green Building Council.

More than two million labor hours went into developing the new facility, according to airport officials.

0