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Alaska Airlines SAMP EA Scoping Comments: Request for EIS and Expanded Alternatives Analysis

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In September 2018, Alaska Airlines submitted formal comments to the Port of Seattle during the scoping phase of Sea-Tac Airport's Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP), urging the Port to conduct a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) rather than a less rigorous Environmental Assessment (EA). The airline argued that an EIS would better withstand legal challenges, produce more meaningful public input, and ultimately be more cost-effective by reducing litigation risk. Alaska Airlines also called on the Port to broaden the range of alternatives under consideration beyond just North Terminal options, since the SAMP's stated purpose addresses airport-wide concerns.

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Alaska Airlines scoping comments submitted September 27, 2018 to Port of Seattle Aviation Environmental and Sustainability (Steve Rybolt) regarding the Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP) proposed environmental assessment. Alaska Airlines argues the Port and FAA should prepare a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) rather than an Environmental Assessment (EA), citing risk of litigation over FONSI findings and onerous mitigation obligations. The letter also argues the range of alternatives is legally inadequate under NEPA because the Port considers only North Terminal alternatives despite a stated airport-wide Purpose and Need. Signed on behalf of Alaska Airlines, headquartered at Sea-Tac Airport, with subsidiary Horizon Airlines.

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