Sea-Tac 3rd runway opponents have long been critical of the previous cost estimates for the 3rd runway. These estimates were in the $800 million range and were several years out of date. There have been many requests for an updated estimate and, in June of this year, Sea-Tac finally complied with a revised estimate of $1.2 billion or a roughly 50% increase.

The critics argue, however, there are still many costs left out of even the new higher estimate. Analysis by the RCAA and the ACC reveals the new estimate does not include sufficient funds to cover such things as noise mitigation, buy outs, increased impact to schools, environmental issues and lost property tax revenue.

Consider further that the 3rd runway is just one of many very expensive projects on Sea-Tac's already crowded plate. They have had to spend huge amounts on increased security, they're undergoing a $2.4 billion remodel of the terminal and many of the infrastructures at the airport are in need of expensive work.

It would appear Sea-Tac could have a very difficult time paying for the new runway along with everything else that's planned. Some, such as Port Commission Candidate Alec Fisken, argue Sea-Tac has mismanaged their finances and may be headed for serious financial trouble without some major changes.

Sea-Tac may be forced to raise the fees charged to airlines to such an extent that it could discourage people from flying and/or cause airlines to pull out of Sea-Tac altogether. If Sea-Tac starts losing revenue from passengers and/or airlines, that will only make their financial problems worse.

SCAA President Mike Ranta offers "the new $1.2 billion estimate is just another good reason to step back and ask if the 3rd runway makes sense right now? This region has enough financial problems without having an airport that's crippled by unreasonable debt and high airfares."