Is There a Smoking Area in Seattle Airport (SEA)?
Unfortunately, smoking is not permitted inside Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Smoking, including the use of electronic cigarettes, is restricted to designated areas outside the terminal buildings. This means you’ll need to exit the airport to smoke.
Where Can I Smoke at SEA Airport?
Seattle Airport maintains specific outdoor smoking areas located a considerable distance from the terminal entrances. These areas are usually situated at least 25 feet away from doorways and air intake vents, as mandated by Washington state law. Look for marked areas outside the baggage claim level and departures level.
Finding the Designated Smoking Areas
The precise locations of the designated smoking areas can vary, but generally, you can find them by following these steps:
- Baggage Claim Level: Exit the terminal and walk towards the outer edges of the baggage claim area. Look for signage indicating the designated smoking zone.
- Departures Level: Similar to baggage claim, exit the terminal on the departures level and walk away from the entrance. Signage should guide you.
It’s always a good idea to ask an airport employee for directions to the nearest designated smoking area to avoid accidentally violating airport regulations.
Why Are There No Indoor Smoking Areas?
The absence of indoor smoking areas in SEA Airport reflects a broader trend toward smoke-free environments in public places. Concerns about secondhand smoke and its impact on health have led to stricter regulations. Washington state law restricts smoking in enclosed public spaces and workplaces. You can read more about the health risks of secondhand smoke at Secondhand smoke on Wikipedia.
Electronic Cigarettes and Vaping
The same rules apply to electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. These are also prohibited inside the airport terminal and can only be used in the designated outdoor smoking areas.
Consequences of Smoking in Non-Designated Areas
Smoking in non-designated areas within SEA Airport can result in fines and other penalties. Airport security and staff regularly patrol the premises to enforce these regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I smoke inside the airport bathrooms?
No, smoking is strictly prohibited in all indoor areas of the airport, including restrooms.
2. Are there any smoking lounges available?
No, Seattle Airport does not have any indoor smoking lounges.
3. How far is the smoking area from security?
The designated smoking areas are located outside the terminal, so you’ll need to exit the building and go through security again upon re-entry. Plan accordingly to allow sufficient time.
4. Can I use my vape pen inside the airport?
No, the use of vape pens and e-cigarettes is restricted to the designated outdoor smoking areas.
5. Is there a smoking area after security?
No, there are no smoking areas located past the security checkpoints at Seattle Airport.
Summary
While Seattle-Tacoma International Airport doesn’t provide indoor smoking areas, designated outdoor smoking zones are available outside the terminal building on both the baggage claim and departures levels. Be sure to adhere to airport regulations and smoke only in these designated areas to avoid penalties.