Expansions At Sea Tac Expected To Benefit NW Ag

Several expansion projects at SeaTac International are expected to have a positive impact on the Northwest Ag Community.  Tom Green, Airfreight Manager for the airport, said in 2016, they saw the addition of Air China, which will help growers, especially cherry growers, better connect with that vital market.

“Bringing freighters in taking the fruit directly into the Chinese market typically Beijing and Shanghai.  That in addition to an existing service that we have with China Eastern and China Cargo airlines.  So, it’s nice to have that participation from these very large airlines that can muster the freighters for the charter season.”

Green said 2016 also so the addition of Air Bridge, which is headquartered in Moscow, Russia.  While not on the airport’s property, Green said a new multi Temperature Chill Facility, built by Western Distribution Services will be a benefit to local fruit growers.  He said the over 200,000 square foot facility will be a real game changer.

“Brand new technology, it’s located really close to the airport just on our north side.  That’s going to be a real asset to the cool chain particularly the cherry exports this summer.”

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