This briefing from the Port of Seattle's SEA-TAC Stakeholder Advisory Round Table explains how air traffic control works at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, covering flight arrival and departure patterns, standard terminal routes, and the three layers of air traffic control — Tower, TRACON, and Center — that manage aircraft from landing through long-distance travel. The document was prepared to help community stakeholders understand the factors that influence where and how aircraft fly around the airport. It is intended as an educational resource for those interested in airport flight patterns and related noise impacts.Open full document
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A presentation prepared by the Port of Seattle for the SEA-TAC Stakeholder Advisory Round Table covering airport flight pattern fundamentals. The briefing covers the air traffic control process including the roles of Tower, TRACON, and Center facilities. Topics include gates/posts, arrival/departure patterns, departure procedures, standard terminal arrival routes, and other factors.