Sea-Tac Airport continues big expansion as spring break travel kicks off

SEATAC, Wash. -- It's going to be a busy few weeks at Sea-Tac Airport as spring break travel kicks off Thursday.

It's happening right in the middle of a big expansion project at the airport.

Just this week, crews are pouring concrete at the south end for the new International Arrivals facility.

Entering the airport drive, the new Concourse D area is taking shape with the steel structure going up in the last week or so.

The steel skeleton of the north satellite project is also visible.

It's expected to open early next year.

The Port of Seattle is working on the next phase of growth after setting yet another record number of passengers last year.

Bill Noddin, catching an early morning flight Thursday, said he's noticed some changes since he had last flown in January.

"It's great to see that it's growing," Noddin said. "Lots of construction last time we were coming through. They were just getting started."

The food court is also being renovated and expanded.

Most areas of the food court are closed, but Anthony's is still open and there are some food kiosks in front of the construction wall, so there is still food available.

"We travel with twins and getting that last meal before you get on and getting those last minute munchies and drinks and stuff is hugely important since we can't bring it through security," Noddin said.

There is a new 24-hour sitting area with Qdoba at the exit from Concourse B and the airport's first all vegetarian restaurant in Concourse A.

A new economic report from the Port shows more than $151,000 jobs either directly from work at the airport or through multiplier effects in the surrounding area.

The airport supports more than $22 million in economic impact to the area.