Washington Aviation System Plan: Chapter 1 — Study Overview

The Washington State Long-Term Air Transportation Study (LATS), authorized in 2005, is a comprehensive statewide aviation planning effort examining current airport capacity and future air transportation needs across Washington's 138 public-use airports, including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The study addresses key challenges such as population growth, limited funding, and land use conflicts over a 25-year planning horizon. Its findings are intended to guide long-term investment decisions and shape aviation policy at federal, state, and regional levels.

Notes

Chapter 1 of the Washington Aviation System Plan (WASP), published July 1, 2009, providing an overview of the Washington State Long-Term Air Transportation Study (LATS), authorized by the Washington State Legislature in 2005 through Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill (ESSB) 5121. WSDOT Aviation conducted a statewide assessment of 138 public use airports including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The study covers three phases: existing capacity assessment (Phase I, completed September 2006), 25-year market forecasts (Phase II, completed July 2007), and long-term policy recommendations (Phase III, July 2009). Special Emphasis Regions include Puget Sound, Southwest Washington, Spokane, and Tri-Cities. Study integrates findings into Washington Transportation Plan (WTP), FAA National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS), and regional transportation plans under RCW Section 47.04.280.

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