A cyberattack has left Seattle-Tacoma International Airport grappling with major internet outages for a third consecutive day on Monday, significantly impacting communication systems and passenger services. The Seattle Medium found that Port of Seattle officials are currently investigating the situation in collaboration with outside cybersecurity experts and federal partners, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Customs and Border Protection.
“We’re working around the clock to get necessary systems back online and to mitigate impacts to our passengers,” said Lance Lyttle, the airport’s aviation managing director, during a press conference on Sunday. While officials have not disclosed the full extent of the outage, Lyttle reassured the public that TSA operations for screening passengers were not affected.
Despite this assurance, travelers have faced longer-than-normal security lines, extended waits at baggage claims, and difficulties navigating the airport due to inoperative terminal screens that display gate information. The disruptions have led to confusion among passengers trying to determine their flight statuses and assigned gates.
Several airlines, including Delta and Alaska Airlines, reported no service interruptions linked to the cyberattack, as both carriers use Sea-Tac as a hub. However, the outage did impact the Port of Seattle’s baggage sorting system, prompting airlines to advise passengers to avoid checking bags whenever possible to minimize delays.
In light of the ongoing situation, the airport has urged travelers to allow extra time for their journeys and to utilize airline mobile applications for obtaining boarding passes and bag tags. The investigation into the cyberattack is ongoing, and authorities are committed to ensuring the safety and efficiency of airport operations moving forward.
