Full Breakdown
Seattle-Tacoma Airport Climbs in J.D. Power Survey After Multi-Billion-Dollar Upgrades
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Improvement Highlight
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport moved from 17th to 11th place among 20 “mega” U.S. airports in the latest J.D. Power customer-satisfaction survey. The ranking, released this week, marks the airport’s largest single-year jump and labels it the most improved facility in the category.
Background & Context
For years the airport had lingered near the bottom of passenger-experience rankings. In response, the Port of Seattle launched a $5.5 billion capital-improvement program that has reshaped key terminals and concourses. Notable projects include the $399 million C Concourse expansion—completed in June—and a $546 million renovation of the north end of the main terminal finished earlier this year. These investments aim to modernize the airport’s infrastructure and enhance amenities for travelers.
Data & Statistics
- Survey period: travel from mid-2025 through mid-2026, encompassing nearly 25,000 U.S. and Canadian respondents.
- Ranking shift: from No. 17 to No. 11 among “mega” airports (20 total).
- Comparative leaders: Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport holds the top spot; Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport ranks second.
- Ongoing projects: construction of 17 new dining and retail venues slated to begin next year, and a $2.5 billion S Concourse renovation projected for completion by 2034.
Official Statements & Responses
The Port of Seattle highlighted the survey results in a social-media post, noting that recent travelers will notice the airport’s improvements and that additional enhancements are planned beginning in 2027. Airport officials emphasized that the S Concourse upgrade will add a new upper level, expanded passenger amenities, and dual-level boarding capabilities, even though no additional gates are planned.
What’s Next
Construction on the new dining and retail locations is set to start next year, while the S Concourse renovation will proceed over the coming decade, with a target finish date of 2034. These projects are positioned to further elevate the passenger experience and sustain the airport’s upward trajectory in future satisfaction surveys.