Port of Olympia Blog
Olympia Regional Airport is excited to partner with SeaPort Airlines, which will offer twice weekly service beginning January 8 between Spokane and Olympia during the legislative session.
SeaPort Airlines is a regionally based airline that has been serving the Pacific Northwest since 2008.
Operating Friday and Monday afternoons during the Washington State Legislative Session, this seasonal route will run January 8 through April to provide a fast, convenient and affordable connection between Eastern Washington and the state capital.
First Direct Flight to the State Capital
Olympia is one of only two states that do not offer direct commercial flights to its state capital. The new service will connect legislators and staff, business representatives attending hearings and meetings, advocacy organizations, and 
citizens seeking greater access to state government.
“The Port of Olympia is excited to welcome this new service connecting Spokane directly to our state capital for the first time in 22 years,” said Port Commission President, Jasmine Vasavada. “Convenient air access supports our regional economy and makes Olympia more accessible to businesses, government leaders, and citizens across Washington.”
A Fast and Convenient Alternative
This flight utilizes a nine-passenger Pilatus PC-12 aircraft, which is well-suited for legislators and staff who want to avoid the delays and challenges associated with larger commercial airports, like expensive offsite parking or TSA lines. It also avoids heavy traffic and congestion down the I-5 interstate from Seattle to Olympia. Passengers can arrive just 20 minutes before their flight.
Environmentally Friendly
The single engine, turbo prop plane used for this route is environmentally friendly and runs on jet fuel, not diesel fuel, so that means there will be no increase in emissions. The service does not affect the Bush Prairie Habitat Conservation Plan.
No Impact on Area Residents
Residents are unlikely to detect any noticeable difference in noise or air traffic. Aircraft of this size and larger already use the Olympia Regional Airport regularly. The service will only add two more flights a week to an airport that already handles about 206 takeoffs and landings a day. The route will use the same runways and flight path as other planes at Olympia Regional Airport.
Cost of Service
Port of Olympia is not paying for this service and there will be no cost to taxpayers. There are no related subsidies, revenue guarantees or new construction. Passengers will pay for flights by booking directly at www.flyseaportair.com with one-way fares starting at $249.
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