Paine Field

Paine Field Airport (Snohomish County Airport) is a unique transport hub, often referred to as Seattle's "boutique airport." Located in the city of Everett, adjacent to the famous Boeing factory, it offers travelers a completely different level of comfort compared to bustling international hubs. Here, passengers are greeted not by endless hustle, but by the atmosphere of a cozy business lounge with fireplaces, comfortable armchairs, and panoramic windows. It is the ideal choice for those who value their time and wish to begin their journey without stress, enjoying views of the Olympic Mountains and the latest airliners.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

• Unique Terminal Design: The airport interior resembles a five-star hotel lobby rather than a waiting hall. Real fireplaces are installed here, expensive stone and wood finishes are used, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows fill the space with natural light.
• Speed and Convenience: Paine Field is renowned for its compactness. The "curb-to-gate" journey often takes just a few minutes. Security screening here is significantly faster and calmer than at Seattle's main airport (Sea-Tac).
• Aviation Atmosphere: Thanks to its proximity to the Boeing factory, passengers can often observe test flights of the newest wide-body airliners right from the waiting lounge. This makes the airport a true gem for aviation enthusiasts.
• Premium Service for All: There is no class division in the terminal regarding waiting comfort — access to cozy rest areas and high-speed Wi-Fi is open to every passenger, regardless of ticket price.

For your convenience, we have compiled all necessary contact information for Paine Field Airport (PAE).

• Official Website: www.flypainefield.com
• Information Service Phone: +1 (425) 388-5125
• Address: 3220 100th St SW, Everett, WA 98204, USA
• Email: For general inquiries and feedback, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: Follow airport news on official pages on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost items on board the aircraft or in the terminal building, please contact your airline's representative directly. For items left at the security checkpoint (TSA), please contact the TSA Lost and Found service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions not related to your specific flight, you can call the airport information service. For information regarding tickets, schedule changes, and other flight details, please contact your airline directly.

Paine Field Airport (PAE) is located approximately 40 kilometers north of downtown Seattle, and there are several ways to reach it. The choice of the best option depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. A trip from the city center usually takes from 40 to 90 minutes depending on traffic conditions and the chosen mode of transport.

Public Transport

This is the most budget-friendly way to get to the airport. The main carrier in this area is Community Transit. Although there is no direct Link light rail line to Paine Field, you can take it to the nearest station in the north and then transfer to a bus. The cost of the trip will be the lowest, but be prepared to spend more time on the road, especially considering transfers. This option is best suited for travelers with light luggage.

Taxi and Ridesharing Services

Taking a taxi or using apps like Uber and Lyft is a convenient and fast way to get to the airport directly from your doorstep. The cost of a trip from downtown Seattle will be approximately $50-80, but may vary depending on demand and time of day. This is an excellent choice if you are traveling with family or a large amount of luggage and value comfort.

Car Rental and Private Transport

If you plan to travel extensively around the region, renting a car may be the most convenient solution. Several rental company counters operate at Paine Field Airport. For those driving a personal vehicle, various parking options are provided on the airport grounds: from economical long-term lots to premium spaces near the terminal. It is recommended to check traffic on the I-5 highway in advance, as congestion can significantly increase travel time.

Other Regional Airports

When planning a trip to Washington State, USA, it is worth considering other air hubs. The largest in the region is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), located 51 km away. Also nearby are Boeing Field Airport (BFI) and smaller regional airports such as Oak Harbor and Friday Harbor.

Paine Field Airport (PAE) is distinguished by its unique and thoughtful structure, focused on maximum passenger comfort. The main feature of the airport is the presence of just one passenger terminal. It is a modern and compact two-story building designed in the style of a boutique hotel, making the stay here as pleasant as possible and eliminating the stress typical of large aviation hubs.

The terminal layout is intuitive. On the first floor, there are airline check-in counters and the baggage claim area. After check-in, passengers proceed to the second floor, where they pass through a single security checkpoint. Immediately beyond it opens a spacious and cozy departure lounge, where all boarding gates are located. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated, eliminating confusion. Since there is only one terminal, inter-terminal transfers are not required, which is a huge advantage for travelers.

The departure lounge at Paine Field is not just a waiting area, but rather a comfortable living room. Convenient armchairs are installed here, fireplaces create a cozy atmosphere, and panoramic windows offer views of the runway and the Cascade Mountains. Passengers have access to several cafes and a bar with high-quality food and beverages. The entire setting is aimed at making the wait for a flight relaxed and calm.

Thanks to its compactness and efficient organization, check-in and security screening at Paine Field take significantly less time than at large airports. Queues are rare here, and all pre-flight formalities usually take no more than 20–30 minutes. Navigation is extremely simple: all gates are located in one common space after the security zone, and signs are clearly visible. It is practically impossible to get lost in this airport, making it an ideal choice for those who value their time and comfort.

The history of Paine Field Airport (PAE) is closely intertwined with the development of the aviation industry in the USA. The airport was founded in 1936 as part of the Works Progress Administration program and was originally planned as one of ten "super airports" in the country. It was named in honor of Topliff Olin Paine, a pilot and World War I hero. In its early years, the airport was actively used for military purposes, serving as a base for the US Army Air Forces during World War II and subsequent conflicts.

A key moment in Paine Field's history was 1966, when Boeing selected this site for the construction of its gigantic assembly plant in Everett, intended for the production of the legendary Boeing 747 aircraft. This decision forever changed the airport's destiny, turning it into one of the world's most important aviation manufacturing centers. It was here that famous wide-body airliners, including the 767, 777, and 787 Dreamliner models, were assembled and made their first flights.

Despite its industrial significance, Paine Field did not serve scheduled passenger flights for a long time. The situation changed only in recent years. After lengthy discussions and the construction of a modern terminal, the airport opened its doors for commercial passenger transport on March 4, 2019. This modernization allowed residents of the northern part of the Seattle metropolitan area to have a convenient alternative to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Among the interesting facts of Paine Field's history is its unique status. It is essentially two facilities in one: an active industrial airfield, home to the world's largest building by volume (the Boeing assembly plant), and a modern, compact passenger airport. Next to the airport is the famous Future of Flight & Boeing Tour aviation center, which allows visitors to look behind the scenes of aviation production, making Paine Field not just a transport hub, but a true attraction for aviation lovers.

Paine Field Airport (PAE) offers passengers a compact yet modern and comfortable terminal where all conditions are created for a pleasant wait for a flight. Despite its relatively small size, the airport ensures a high level of service focused on traveler convenience.

Within the terminal, you will find a small but carefully curated selection of cafes and restaurants where you can have a sandwich, drink coffee, or enjoy a full meal featuring local cuisine. The choice of establishments fully corresponds to the general atmosphere of comfort at the airport. There are also shops where you can purchase souvenirs, press, and travel essentials. For those who value enhanced comfort, waiting areas with comfortable seats and a pleasant atmosphere are provided.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices allow you to stay connected. The airport also has ATMs for cash withdrawals.

Paine Field Airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, special elevators, and restrooms. Travelers with children can use nursing rooms, which have everything necessary for baby care. In case of need, basic medical assistance is available at the airport.

Although the airport does not have specialized conference rooms or business centers, the quiet environment, comfortable seating, and stable Wi-Fi create excellent conditions for working comfortably while waiting for a flight. If you have an early departure or a long layover, there are several hotels of various price categories located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, offering comfortable accommodation and transfers to the terminal.

Paine Field Airport (PAE) offers passengers a unique gastronomic experience that fully aligns with its status as a comfortable and modern boutique airport. Instead of the usual fast-food chains, here you will find establishments focusing on high-quality and fresh local products. The main food operator is the famous Seattle company Beecher's Handmade Cheese, making the wait for your flight truly delicious.

The main place for a full lunch or a light snack is Beecher's Handmade Cheese Cafe. It is located in the main departure area (airside), immediately after passing security control. We highly recommend trying their legendary dish — the "World's Best" Mac & Cheese, made with their signature cheese. The menu also features fresh sandwiches, salads, soups, and breakfast options. This is an ideal choice for both a quick snack and a leisurely lunch in a cozy setting.

For those wishing to relax with a beverage before their flight, the Upper Case Bar is available. The bar offers a selection of local craft beverages and wines from Washington State. This provides an opportunity to explore the flavors of the US Pacific Northwest without leaving the comfortable waiting lounge.

All establishments are located in the secure zone, accessible only to passengers. Their operating hours are synchronized with the flight schedule — they are open from early morning until the last plane departs. The price range can be described as medium to above average. The menu includes vegetarian dishes, such as the famous Mac & Cheese. Passengers with specific dietary requirements (such as Halal, vegan, or gluten-free) are advised to check with staff on-site for suitable options.

Planning a trip through Paine Field Airport (PAE) in Seattle? This small and modern airport offers a calmer alternative to major hubs. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, make use of these tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Paine Field is known for its efficiency. For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is more than enough to drop off luggage and pass through security control without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your phone.

Passing Control and Seat Selection. Security checkpoints here are usually less busy than at major airports. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider that one side offers views of Puget Sound, while the other overlooks the Cascade Mountains. Window seats will gift you unforgettable landscapes during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat will provide more convenience during the flight.

Carry-on Luggage Rules. Security standards here are the same as in all US airports. Liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml (3.4 oz), packed in a single transparent bag. All electronic devices larger than a mobile phone may need to be removed from your bag for separate scanning. Any sharp objects are prohibited in the cabin.

Transfers and Customs. Paine Field primarily serves direct domestic flights, so long layovers here are rare. If you do have a connection planned, it will be as simple as possible thanks to the terminal's compactness. Customs and border control are only undergone by passengers on very rare international flights; for most travelers, this procedure is not applicable.

Savings and Comfort. To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle — after security, it can be filled at drinking fountains. Also, book parking online in advance if you plan to leave your car. The Paine Field terminal is designed as a cozy lounge with fireplaces and comfortable armchairs, making waiting for a flight very comfortable.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first check the information on the online display or in the airline's app. Contact your carrier's representative to find out about rebooking options or possible compensation. Despite the small size, the terminal has cafes and free Wi-Fi to brighten up the wait.