Cyberattack Disrupts Operations at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

A widespread internet and web systems outage at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) has severely disrupted operations since August 24, 2024.

The outage, which also affected other facilities managed by the Port of Seattle, is suspected to have been caused by a cyberattack. Critical airport systems, including those necessary for check-ins and flight information displays, have been impacted, leading to significant delays and confusion for travelers.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is the busiest airport in the Pacific Northwest, serving nearly 51 million passengers annually. It is a major hub for Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines, offering flights to destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Incident details

The outage began on the morning of August 24, when the Port of Seattle first detected system failures, prompting concerns of a potential cyberattack. In response, the Port took immediate action to isolate critical systems to prevent further damage. However, despite ongoing efforts to restore full functionality, the situation remains unresolved, with no clear timeline for when normal operations will resume.

The Port of Seattle, including SEA Airport, is experiencing an internet and web systems outage, which is impacting some systems at the airport. Passengers are encouraged to check with their airlines for the latest information for their flights. pic.twitter.com/GY6fbAHBg8

— Seattle-Tacoma Intl. Airport (@flySEA) August 24, 2024

In the interim, SEA Airport has urged passengers to prepare for potential disruptions. The airport's official X (formerly Twitter) account advised travelers to check in online before arriving at the airport, obtain mobile boarding passes, and, if possible, stick to carry-on luggage to avoid complications with the affected baggage handling system. Additionally, passengers are encouraged to allow extra time to navigate the airport due to issues with in-terminal flight information screens.

Impact on travelers and airlines

The outage has particularly affected Alaska Airlines, one of the primary carriers operating out of SEA Airport. The airline issued a statement acknowledging delays in baggage handling due to technical difficulties. Passengers have been advised to clearly label their checked baggage and report any missing items to the airline's baggage service office. Despite these measures, many travelers have reported long lines, delayed flights, and the need for manual ticketing, which has slowed the check-in process considerably.

As of the latest updates, Port of Seattle teams are working closely with cybersecurity experts and relevant authorities to resolve the issue. However, there is still no estimated time for the full restoration of services. In the meantime, passengers traveling through SEA Airport are advised to:

• Check in online before arriving at the airport and obtain a mobile boarding pass.
• Stick to carry-on luggage to avoid delays with checked baggage.
• Allow extra time to get to the airport and navigate to your gate, considering the potential for incorrect gate information on terminal screens.
• Monitor flight status directly through airline apps or websites, as in-terminal displays may not be reliable.

The situation remains fluid, and travelers are encouraged to stay informed through official airport and airline channels for the latest updates.