Airport Financial Forecast & SAMP Impacts: Commission Briefing

A May 2018 Port of Seattle Commission briefing assessed the financial impact of the Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP) on Sea-Tac Airport, finding that adding SAMP projects could push airline cost-per-enplaned-passenger (CPE) to an infeasible $36 by 2027. To keep costs within an acceptable range of $25–$30, the Port identified the need to increase non-aeronautical revenues, control operating and maintenance expenses, and reduce projected capital spending. The briefing concluded that SAMP is financially achievable, but only with vigilant cost management.

Notes

Port Of Seattle Commission briefing dated May 8, 2018, presenting the airport financial forecast and Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP) impacts on cost per enplaned passenger (CPE). Projects baseline CPE of $20 in 2025 without SAMP projects, and $36 CPE in 2027 with SAMP — deemed likely not feasible. Upper limit CPE estimated at $25–$30 for 2027–2030. To achieve financial feasibility (CPE below $30), the briefing identifies three requirements: increase non-aeronautical net operating income (NOI), manage operating and maintenance cost growth, and reduce projected capital spending. Covers the Airline Lease Agreement (SLOA IV) financial framework, including aeronautical rate-setting, debt service coverage ratio of 1.25x, PFC and grant funding exclusions from rate bases, and revenue bond vs. cash-funded capital cost recovery.

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