If you’re planning to fly internationally from Everett, Washington, the options might not be what you expect. Everett’s Paine Field mostly handles domestic flights, so international service is pretty limited.
Right now, there aren’t any major international airlines flying directly out of Paine Field.
Most folks end up using Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for international trips. Paine Field, though, is a quieter, less hectic spot for domestic flights, and it’s a breeze to connect to Seattle’s bigger airport.
If you’re just starting your journey, Everett can be a low-stress launchpad. Knowing how to connect and get around locally can make a real difference in how smooth your travel feels.
Key Takeways
- Paine Field airport mainly serves domestic flights, not international.
- You can connect through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for overseas travel.
- Paine Field offers convenient parking and less crowded terminals for travelers.
Overview of Everett’s Paine Field International Airport
Seattle Paine Field International Airport covers both commercial and general aviation needs. The terminal is modern, compact, and close to Everett and nearby towns.
The airport’s layout is efficient, and it’s been seeing more airline service lately.
History and Development
Paine Field actually started out as a military airfield in World War II. Later, it became Snohomish County Airport, mostly handling manufacturing and private flights.
Commercial passenger service only really kicked off in 2019. That was a big shift for the airport.
The name changed to Seattle Paine Field International Airport to reflect its growing role. That move brought more attention from airlines and travelers.
It’s still smaller than Seattle-Tacoma International, but it’s been growing steadily.
Infrastructure and Facilities
Paine Field has a single runway that handles both commercial flights and private planes. There’s an FAA control tower, Cat 1 ILS, and the airport is certified under Part 139 for safety and operations.
Alaska Airlines and Frontier Airlines use the airport as a hub, which keeps things busy. Parking is straightforward, and it’s easy to hop onto nearby highways.
Passenger Terminal Experience
The terminal itself is compact and easy to get around. You won’t find yourself trekking across endless corridors here.
Shorter walks and faster security lines are the norm. There are basic amenities—seating, restrooms, and some food options.
The airport keeps things pretty stress-free. If you’re not a fan of crowds but still want to reach the West Coast or Hawaii, this place is worth considering.
Leading International Airlines Serving Everett Washington Airport
At Paine Field, you’ll find a handful of airlines connecting you to key destinations. There are some established names and a few newer ones testing the waters.
Alaska Airlines: Routes and International Partnerships
Alaska Airlines is the main player at Paine Field. They fly direct to U.S. cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Honolulu.
No direct international flights from Paine Field, though. Instead, you connect through bigger hubs like Seattle or Portland.
From there, Alaska partners with international carriers, opening up flights to Canada, Mexico, and parts of Asia. That partnership network is handy if you don’t mind a layover.
Frontier Airlines: Destinations and Services
Frontier Airlines has started to expand at Paine Field. They focus on budget-friendly flights to U.S. cities, and there’s talk about adding more routes.
No international flights from Everett yet, but who knows what the future holds? For now, you can use Frontier for domestic legs and then connect to international flights at larger airports.
Emerging International Carriers at Paine Field
There’s a slow but steady interest from international carriers at Paine Field. They’re eyeing the potential for more global options out of Everett.
Short-haul international routes—think Canada or Mexico—might show up first. It’s not a reality yet, but there’s momentum building for broader international service.
Airport officials are working to attract more airlines, especially as more travelers show interest.
Travel Experience and Amenities for International Passengers
At Everett Washington Airport, you’ll find check-in and security move pretty quickly. The waiting areas are comfortable, and there’s a decent selection of food and shopping for a small airport.
Because it’s not huge, you won’t get lost or overwhelmed. The terminal still covers the basics you’d want.
Check-In and Security Procedures
Check-in at Everett is usually fast. The smaller size keeps lines short.
Self-service kiosks and staffed counters are available, even for international flights. If you need help, staff are around to answer questions.
Security is streamlined, and the terminal’s layout makes for easy movement. Arriving about two hours before your flight is still a good idea, just to be safe.
Airport Lounges and Waiting Areas
The waiting spaces feel relaxed and have a modern design. Big windows give you views of the Olympic Mountains—definitely a nice touch.
There are fireplaces, exposed wood, and fresh flowers, which makes the place feel cozy. Even when it’s busy, the terminal doesn’t feel packed.
You can rest or get some work done without much distraction.
Dining and Shopping Options
Dining choices aren’t endless, but you’ll find enough to get by. There’s a mix of cafes and grab-and-go spots, with some local flavor mixed in.
Shopping is pretty basic—travel essentials, gifts, and reading material. The airport keeps it simple, so you won’t waste time hunting for what you need.
Transportation, Parking, and Connections
Getting to and from Paine Field is straightforward. Parking is close, and there are several transportation options.
Parking Facilities and Rates
Three main uncovered parking lots are available. You pick your own spot, which is nice for flexibility.
Rates are $6 per hour, maxing out at $34 per day. The lots are just a short walk from the terminal.
If you want, there are private shuttle services nearby with different price points. Reserving your spot ahead of time can save you some hassle during busy periods.
Ground Transportation and Accessibility
Ground transportation covers taxis, ride-shares, and shuttles connecting to nearby areas. There are plenty of choices depending on your needs.
Some shuttles are affordable and easy to use. For a bit more comfort, you can book a town car or limo ahead of time.
Paine Field is set up for accessibility, too. Signage and ramps make it easy to get around, even if you have mobility challenges.
Connections to Seattle and Beyond
Paine Field sits in a spot that makes getting to Seattle pretty easy. Shuttle services and taxis are available if you want to head about 25 miles south into downtown.
Depending on the traffic, that drive can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes. Sometimes it’s faster, but, well, Seattle traffic has a mind of its own.
Express shuttles also run to places like Bellevue, Tacoma, and Everett itself. So whether you’re traveling for business or just exploring, you’ve got options.
If you’re thinking about catching a train or bus for the next leg, those connections are close by in Everett and Seattle transit hubs. Paine Field just sort of works as a flexible launch pad for getting around the region.