Did you know that the SeaTac Control Tower stands 233 feet tall? That is measured from the ground to the cab floor. The total height is 269 feet with antennas. The SeaTac Control Tower is more than twice as high as its predecessor.
Right before us stands the SeaTac Control Tower. It is a vital part of the Seattle Tacoma International Airport. This tower oversees the safe and efficient movement of aircraft. It guides them through the skies and on the ground.
In 2000, a major project began. It was part of a ten-year series of renovations and expansions at the airport. The construction of this new traffic control tower was a key element. The project cost about $26 million. The exterior was done in 2001. The tower became fully operational in mid-2004. FAA specialists spent 18 months installing complex equipment. This equipment allows controllers to track and talk to aircraft.
The FAA chose the site after studying over 30 options. They considered size, location, radar screening and runway views. The selected site is close to terminal roadways. It provides superior visibility of the runways. The SeaTac Control Tower was built between the postal service’s airport mail facility and the Alaska Airlines cargo depot. This location allowed more room in the passenger terminal. The old tower was built in the 1950s. It is now part of the passenger terminal.
The URS Corp and FAA team designed the SeaTac Control Tower. It features advanced architecture, structures, and communication systems. The tower has a base building. It houses support infrastructure and administrative personnel. There is also an engine generator building.
The tower’s shaft is made of pre-cast concrete panels. It is topped by an oval wineglass bulb of fiberglass-reinforced panels. A pneumatically-placed concrete roof encloses it. The east face has a translucent glazed panel. It serves as a backdrop for flags. These flags represent the United States, Washington State, and Canada.
The SeaTac Control Tower’s cab is on Level 5. It is 233 feet above the runways. The 850-square-foot cab tops the tower. This is 350 square feet larger than the old cab. The base building covers 18,000 square feet. A geometrically complex steel framework outlines the wineglass shape.
The elevator only goes two floors below the cab. A retractable hoist provides a lift to the upper levels. Animated computer modeling, blast testing, and wind tunnel testing refined the structural design. Fiberglass-reinforced panels clad the framework. Reverse inclined glazed canopies protect the north and south entries. A two-story glazed bridge connects the tower and base building.
Ergonomic design was key for the cab. Air traffic controllers need to be attentive. Good visibility can be crucial. The layout was carefully planned. Controllers’ comfort was a priority. A full-scale mock-up was built for testing.
The old tower had space for three controller positions. But eight were often active. The new SeaTac Control Tower has ten controller operating spaces. It can expand to 15. The tower allows controllers to view planes and ground vehicles.
New equipment includes a rapid deployment voice switch. This combines radio, telephone, and intercom capabilities. Controllers use a single headset and computer touch-screen. The Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System provides radar automation processing. It also offers full-color aircraft situation displays. Other upgrades improve communication and control reliability.
The SeaTac Control Tower ensures safety. It uses the latest technology. It stands as a testament to modern air traffic management. The tower’s design and equipment are vital for airport operations.