Designed by HOK, the modernised space includes a new double-height check-in hall, achieved by moving back-of-house services in a mezzanine space to a different level; an expanded footprint by removing underutilised equipment on the kerbside; and a new automated bag-drop technology for self-checked bags.

In addition it boasts upgraded security checkpoints for six screening lanes, with the option to flex to seven as demand grows, and expansive windows, wood-panelled finishes and curated artwork to elevate the traveller experience.

As planned, the new-look terminal is designed to improve traveller flow and prepares Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) for global visitors during the FIFA World Cup this June.

Originally built more than 40 years ago, the North Main Terminal serving Alaska Airlines has been reconfigured by HOK and progressive design-build partner Hensel Phelps to streamline the traveler journey from curbside to security.

The Alaska-led programme creates a double-height hall that reduces congestion and improves sightlines so travellers can easily see the next step in their journey. To do this, the project team relocated back-of-house services on a mezzanine level to a bridge level between the terminal and parking garage.

Floor-to-ceiling exterior windows enhance visibility and wayfinding, while wood-panelled finishes and curated local art create a bright, welcoming environment inspired by the Pacific Northwest.

Alaska Airlines brought new automated bag-drop technology to the terminal that allows travellers to self-check bags quickly. This technology further opens up the check-in hall and creates a smoother traveler experience.

Relocating back-of-house functions enabled the creation of a remote check-in facility, that allows travellers arriving from the garage or light rail to check their bags before proceeding directly to security.

“This project transforms one of SEA’s most important passenger areas into a clearer, more efficient gateway for travellers,” said Keith Hui, regional leader of aviation and transportation in HOK’s Seattle studio.

“By opening up the terminal, improving circulation and integrating modern technology, the design helps create a seamless traveller experience.”

Approaching LEED Gold certification, the SEA Gateway Project incorporates high-performance HVAC systems, energy-efficient elevators and escalators, as well as advanced lighting controls designed to improve efficiency and support wayfinding.

Credits: Alaska Airlines

The post Alaska Airlines unveils SEA’s renovated North Main Terminal first appeared on AircrewNews.com.

Vaping or smoking on board is prohibited, as it can cause a severe fire risk, and due to pressurized cabins on an airplane, this can be extremely dangerous. The ban also protects other passengers and crew from secondhand smoke, and is enforced by the Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) and applies to all commercial flights.

Smoking A Vape In The Airplane Lavatory

The Alaska Airlines flight, operating as AS1463, had departed from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) on Thursday, March 26, when the passenger in question made their way to the onboard lavatory and then proceeded to smoke from a vape. This subsequently set off the aircraft’s smoke alarm, prompting the crew to intervene.

After the incident, the pilot then requested support from law enforcement to meet the airplane on arrival at Sacramento International Airport (SMF), and reiterated that they had found a passenger vaping onboard and setting off the alarms. The captain noted that he would like somebody to have a conversation with them. The exact message is shared below as shared by Flight Simulator Fantasy:

“If you could pass along the message… could you please have law enforcement meet the airplane? We had a passenger set off a smoke alarm in one of our lavs using a vape of some kind, and just wanna have somebody talk to him.”

Vaping Onboard AS1463 From Seattle To Sacramento

Multiple source on social media have claimed that the flight number was AS1436; however, on closer inspection, this is a typo, and precise flight data from Flightradar24 suggests the service was actually AS1463. This flight, which is operated by a Boeing 737 MAX 9, departs from Seattle at 9:24 am daily, and arrives in Sacramento at 11:17 am after a one-hour and 53-minute flight.

On the day of this incident, the flight departed late from Seattle, having pushed back from Seattle at 10:39, one hour and 15 minutes late, and arrived in Sacramento at 12:12 pm, 55 minutes behind schedule. On this day, the flight was operated by aircraft N983AK, a two-year-old MAX 9, which joined the Alaska fleet in June 2023. Further aircraft characteristics below as per ch-aviation:

Credits: Alaska Airlines

The post Alaska Airlines Pilots Ask For Police “To Meet The Airplane” After Passenger Vapes Onboard first appeared on AircrewNews.com.