President Joe Biden’s upcoming visit to Seattle is expected to impact travel plans, affecting both flights and road traffic over the weekend.
Scheduled to arrive at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) on Friday at 5:50 p.m., Air Force One’s presence will result in a temporary halt of all air traffic for at least 30 minutes before the arrival of the presidential aircraft.
This interruption in operations could lead to potential delays for airlines, including Alaska and Horizon flights. Additionally, further flight disruptions may occur when Air Force One departs on Saturday.
Travelers are advised to stay informed about their flight schedules by checking with their respective airlines. Although officials anticipate minimal impact if everything proceeds smoothly, travelers are encouraged to prepare for possible delays.
The visit will also affect road traffic in the Seattle area. The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) warns of significant travel delays and detours in the coming days. Commuters are advised to monitor traffic conditions and allow extra travel time accordingly.
Past experiences with presidential visits have shown that such high-security events can result in significant disruptions. Residents and travelers are urged to plan ahead, leave early, and stay updated on any changes to travel conditions in the Seattle area during President Biden’s visit.