ICE Deployment at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, what you need to know.

Hi all,

I’m sure you all are aware of the latest news reports that ICE agents may be performing TSA functions at certain airports. So here is the latest information regarding the deployment of ICE agents at Seattle Tacoma International Airport. I will continue to update this post with the latest information.

As of Sunday afternoon (3/22/2026), operations and security screening times at SEA remain normal, and we do not expect ICE agents to perform TSA roles. We have not received any such communication from DHS.

This is because, compared to other major airports (Atlanta, Houston, etc) SEA has seen a lower absentee rate to date (around 10%). Other airports are as high as 40%.

We have been told that ICE agents, if deployed, will be conducting “non-regulatory roles.”

Part of the reason we have seen lower attrition in SEA is because of the support services the Port of Seattle has provided to the TSA agents.

We have deployed our own Port of Seattle staff to help augment the “non-regulatory roles” so that TSA agents can focus on screening. This reduces the need for ICE agents. We’ve even asked airlines to start dedicating airline staff to this support effort.

We have also set up a food pantry at the airport where we are distributing food and resources to TSA agents to help them with their livelihood while they work without pay. This has gone a long way in reducing their daily expenses.

And of course, we have to give credit to the will and perseverence of the local workforce who continue to stay dedicated to their work. They may be working for the feds, but they are still from our communities and remain committed to serving. This is heroic.

IF you would like to donate to the food pantry, we are collecting non-perishable foods, household items, and meals, including diapers. You can drop them off between 8:00am and 4:00pm at the SEA Conference Center, which is located right above Check Point 2 in the airport.

I’m told gas cards in $20 increments would go a long way for those who commute to work.

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I will continue to provide updates as the situation changes below so check back.

Thanks,

Sam Cho

Port Commissioner