A 2017 white paper from Burien's Airport Advisory Committee argues that unchecked expansion at Sea-Tac Airport is causing serious health and environmental harm—including noise pollution, air pollution, and related illnesses—for residents of South King County and parts of Seattle. The committee contends that the Port of Seattle has prioritized the convenience of air travelers over the well-being of nearby communities, while King County taxpayers bear the financial burden of an airport that benefits the entire state. The paper calls on the Burien City Council to urge regional and state leaders to coordinate aviation capacity planning and meaningfully address the human costs of continued airport growth.Open full document
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A white paper from the Burien Airport Advisory Committee arguing that continued expansion of Sea-Tac Airport is unsustainable due to growing noise and air pollution impacts on surrounding South King County communities. The paper criticizes the Port of Seattle for prioritizing the flying public over the health of nearby residents and calls on the Burien City Council to advocate for aviation capacity planning coordination with regional and state authorities. It recommends subjecting the Port’s expansion plans to voter approval and questions whether King County taxpayers alone should bear the costs of a facility that benefits the entire state.