The Best Times to Leave Tacoma for Sea-Tac Airport (and When You’ll Hit Traffic)

Planning a trip from Tacoma to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)? One of the most common questions we hear at Tacoma Airport Shuttle is:

“When should I leave Tacoma to make my flight on time?”

It’s a great question—because the drive from Tacoma to Sea-Tac Airport can range from a smooth 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic on I-5. In this guide, we’ll help you figure out the best times to leave Tacoma for Sea-Tac Airport, plus share tips for avoiding traffic delays and making your airport trip stress-free.

How Far Is Tacoma from Sea-Tac Airport?

The distance from downtown Tacoma to Sea-Tac Airport is about 25 miles. On clear roads, the drive usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes. However, Tacoma and Seattle are known for unpredictable traffic, especially during rush hours and special events.

Best Times of Day to Drive from Tacoma to Sea-Tac Airport

Early Morning (Before 6:30 AM)

This is one of the best times to leave Tacoma. Traffic is generally light, and you’ll avoid the morning rush into Seattle. Plan about 30–35 minutes for the drive.

Midday (10:00 AM – 2:30 PM)

Late mornings and early afternoons are typically quieter on I-5. It’s a good window if you have a midday or early afternoon flight. Expect travel times of around 35–45 minutes.

Late Evening (After 7:00 PM)

Traffic usually clears out again after 7 PM. Evening flights or red-eye departures benefit from open highways, with travel times of about 30–40 minutes.

When You’re Likely to Hit Traffic

Unfortunately, the Tacoma-to-Sea-Tac route can be congested at certain times:

• Morning Rush Hour: 6:30 AM – 9:30 AM
• Afternoon/Evening Rush: 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM
• Fridays: Traffic is often heavier all day due to weekend travelers.
• Special Events: Seahawks games, concerts, or major conventions can create unexpected backups.

During these periods, your travel time could increase to 60–75 minutes—or more. Always plan extra time if you’re traveling in rush hour.

Tips to Avoid Traffic When Traveling from Tacoma to Sea-Tac Airport

Here’s how to make your airport transfer smoother:

• Check Traffic Apps: Use Waze or Google Maps before leaving to see real-time conditions on I-5.
• Book Early Morning Flights: Departing before sunrise avoids most congestion.
• Use a Trusted Shuttle Service: Professional drivers know alternative routes and traffic patterns. Tacoma Airport Shuttle monitors traffic and adjusts pick-up times to keep you on schedule.
• Avoid Fridays if Possible: If you have flexibility, choose flights on other weekdays.

Why Choose Tacoma Airport Shuttle?

When you book with Tacoma Airport Shuttle, you get:

• Professional, local drivers who know Tacoma and Sea-Tac routes inside and out.
• Real-time traffic monitoring to help avoid delays.
• Flat-rate pricing—no surprise surge fees or hidden costs.
• Reliable pickups that ensure you arrive at SEA on time for your flight.

Ready for a Smooth Ride to Sea-Tac?

Don’t leave your travel plans to chance. Book your Tacoma Airport Shuttle today for a safe, reliable, and comfortable ride to Sea-Tac Airport—no matter the time of day.