TagCommercial Aviation Coordinating Commission(40)

A 2022 Washington State report recommends a three-part strategy to address the region's projected 27 million annual passenger shortfall by 2050: expanding capacity at existing airports like Paine Field and Sea-Tac, and developing a new greenfield airport in Pierce or Thurston County. Sea-Tac is expected to remain the region's primary hub, optimizing capacity for passengers and freight through the 2030s under its Sustainable Airport Master Plan. The report also highlights the need to address harmful emissions and noise as part of an 'Airport of the Future' approach.

The Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission (CACC) held an online public engagement process in August–September 2022 to gather Washington state residents' input on potential new airport sites. Nearly 20,000 users participated, and majorities opposed all ten proposed 'greenfield' locations, citing concerns about environmental impacts, noise, farmland loss, and traffic. The most common feedback at virtual public meetings was opposition to the East King County site, with many participants also raising concerns about proximity to Sea-Tac Airport.

The Washington State Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission's 2022 report to the Legislature identifies six existing airports — including Paine Field, Bremerton National, and Tacoma Narrows — as candidates for expanded aviation capacity, while also exploring potential greenfield sites for a new airport. The report summarizes public input showing that a majority of respondents support building new aviation capacity despite environmental costs, and outlines the Commission's guiding principles of public benefit, economic feasibility, environmental responsibility, and social equity. The Commission's final recommendations are expected by February 15, 2023.

The Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission met in January 2022 to discuss potential airport expansion sites in the Washington State region, including updates on a short list of six airports being considered for additional commercial, cargo, and general aviation capacity. The Commission voted to update its decision-making charter language regarding quorums and voting procedures, and reviewed public concerns about noise and community impact, particularly around Tacoma Narrows Airport. No new greenfield airport sites were added to the list, though the Commission acknowledged that additional sites may eventually be needed to meet future aviation demand.

The Regional Aviation Baseline Study, published in May 2021 by the Puget Sound Regional Council, examines the current state and future needs of the aviation system in the greater Puget Sound region, including commercial service, air cargo, and general aviation. The study evaluates airport capacity scenarios through 2050, assesses infrastructure requirements, and explores options for meeting growing regional air travel demand. It was funded by a Federal Aviation Administration grant and prepared by WSP in association with several partner firms.