Everett’s Paine Field Airport, nestled amidst the bustling landscape of southwestern Snohomish County, is set to receive a significant boost to its growth and economic prospects. The Washington Air National Guard, which has owned three key parcels of land at the airport for six decades, will transfer these properties to Snohomish County, marking a long-awaited development for the region’s aviation industry. The transfer of these 14.3 acres, written into this year’s National Defense Authorization Act, is expected to stimulate job creation, economic expansion, and infrastructure improvement at Paine Field.
Paine Field Airport has been a focal point for aviation activity since its inception in 1936 during the Great Depression. Over the years, it has evolved from an Army base during World War II and an Air Force base during the Korean War to the present-day home of Boeing’s massive aircraft assembly plant, where thousands of employees contribute to the production of aircraft like the iconic Boeing 747. Today, the airport generates over $60 billion in economic impact annually and supports more than 125,000 jobs, making it a vital economic driver for the region.
The transfer of land from the Air National Guard to Snohomish County holds immense promise for Paine Field’s future. The three parcels involved in the transfer are strategically located at the end of the airport’s general aviation runway. These parcels include land near the Boeing assembly plant, a parcel facilitating the expansion of the airport access road, and a wetland area that is likely to be preserved for environmental reasons.
One of the primary objectives of this transfer is to foster the growth of the aerospace sector in the region. Snohomish County envisions utilizing the land near the Boeing assembly plant for industrial activities, with a specific focus on aerospace manufacturing. This move aligns perfectly with the Pacific Northwest’s status as the aerospace capital of the world, emphasizing the commitment to the long-term growth of the region’s aerospace economy.
Rep. Rick Larsen, a key figure in the transfer process, hailed the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act and emphasized its potential to bring more jobs and economic opportunities to Paine Field. As the lead Democrat on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Larsen’s influence and dedication to the region’s growth have played a pivotal role in securing this transfer.
Paine Field Airport’s expansion is necessitated by the expected growth in the region, but available land for new facilities is limited. The airport covers 1,315 acres, with most of the space dedicated to runways, aerospace businesses, and the Boeing Co. The addition of these 14.3 acres offers a precious opportunity for further development and improvement.
Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers lauded the land transfer, recognizing its potential to enhance the airport’s role as a critical economic engine for the region. The county’s decision to rename the airport as Seattle Paine Field International Airport underscores its efforts to raise its profile among travelers and position itself as a viable alternative to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
In summary, the transfer of these 14.3 acres from the Air National Guard to Snohomish County marks a significant milestone in Paine Field Airport’s history. It represents a collective effort involving government officials, local stakeholders, and the military, all working together to ensure the airport’s long-term growth and prosperity. As the region’s aviation hub continues to evolve, the potential for job creation, economic impact, and infrastructure enhancement shines brighter than ever before, reaffirming Paine Field’s position as a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest’s aerospace industry.
