Per-capita, Washington state is the nation's leading exporter. Airport planners estimate that Sea-Tac's air cargo will reach 730,000 metric tons by 2010. That's almost 60 percent more than in 1998. Seattle's popularity as a destination for conventions and tourism continues to grow. In 1998, conventions drew 370,000 people to the region, significantly boosting the local economy.
Tourism is Washington state's fourth largest industry.
Meeting the needs of passengers Currently, between 70,000 and 90,000 passengers use Sea-Tac Airport every day. An additional 35,000 people meet and greet or drop off travelers. In 1999, the airport served almost 28 million passengers. That's 10 percent more than the airport terminal was designed to handle. As a result, long lines are becoming the norm during peak periods.