Map of Airports in Washington State

Washington State boasts a comprehensive network of airports, ranging from large international hubs to smaller, regional and general aviation facilities. Understanding their location and function is crucial for travel planning, freight transport, and emergency response within the state.

Major Commercial Airports

The most prominent airport in Washington is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), commonly known as SeaTac. Located just south of Seattle, it’s a major gateway for domestic and international flights, serving as a hub for Alaska Airlines. Its map location is easily identifiable due to its size and the volume of air traffic it handles.

Other significant commercial airports include Spokane International Airport (GEG), serving Eastern Washington and parts of Idaho. It handles a considerable amount of passenger traffic and cargo. Paine Field (PAE) in Everett, north of Seattle, has expanded its commercial operations in recent years, offering an alternative to SeaTac, particularly for destinations on the West Coast.

Smaller commercial airports like Tri-Cities Airport (PSC) in Pasco, Yakima Air Terminal-McAllister Field (YKM), and Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport (PUW) provide regional connectivity, facilitating travel within the state and to nearby areas in Oregon and Idaho.

Regional and General Aviation Airports

Beyond the major players, Washington State features numerous regional and general aviation airports. These smaller airports are essential for connecting rural communities, supporting business aviation, and providing access for emergency services like medevac and firefighting. Examples include Friday Harbor Airport (FRD) on San Juan Island, Walla Walla Regional Airport (ALW), and Bowerman Airport (HQM) in Hoquiam.

These airports are crucial for supporting industries like agriculture, forestry, and tourism, allowing for the rapid movement of goods and personnel. Many also serve as bases for flight training and recreational flying.

Interpreting an Airport Map

A map of Washington State’s airports typically uses symbols to differentiate between commercial, regional, and private facilities. Larger airports are often marked with more prominent symbols and include the IATA and ICAO codes (e.g., SEA, KSEA). Clicking on an airport marker usually provides details such as the airport’s name, location coordinates, runway length, and services offered.

Understanding the geographic distribution of these airports reveals the state’s commitment to air connectivity. Airports along the coast facilitate access to the Olympic Peninsula and island communities. Airports in the Cascade Mountains support recreational activities like skiing and hiking. Eastern Washington airports serve the agricultural heartland.

Importance of Airport Mapping

Accurate and accessible airport maps are vital for pilots, air traffic controllers, emergency responders, and anyone involved in the aviation industry. They contribute to safe and efficient air travel, support economic development, and enhance the state’s overall transportation infrastructure.

Online resources, such as the Washington State Department of Transportation Aviation Division website, provide interactive maps and detailed information about all airports within the state.