Port of Seattle and airlines face class-action lawsuit in federal court
A class-action lawsuit against the Port of Seattle and airlines is moving forward in federal court after a recent decision by U.S. District Court Judge Jamal White. The lawsuit, filed in 2022 on behalf of residents living near the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), claims harm from aircraft emissions in the area. The lawsuit accuses the Port of Seattle, Alaska Airlines, and Delta Air Lines of negligence, battery, trespass, and public nuisance.
Judge White rejected motions to dismiss the case, allowing it to proceed despite arguments from the defendants that federal law preempts the claims and the court lacks jurisdiction. This decision represents a significant step forward for plaintiffs seeking accountability for what they describe as a “Contamination Zone” triggered by aircraft pollution.
Residents in the alleged contamination zone have raised concerns about high levels of toxins like arsenic, lead, and magnesium, leading to property damage and severe health risks. These risks include increased rates of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, and cancer, according to the lawsuit. Reports from the University of Washington and King County Public Health have highlighted higher rates of premature births, low birth weights, and reduced life expectancy in the area.
The lawsuit also emphasizes the disproportionate impact on low-income and minority communities, pointing out that over 30% of residents in the contamination zone live below 200% of the federal poverty level. Meanwhile, the Port of Seattle and airline defendants argue that federal regulations, like the Clean Air Act and Federal Aviation Administration rules, preempt the claims. They claim compliance with these regulations protects them from liability.
Advocacy groups have long warned about the environmental and health effects of Sea-Tac Airport’s operations, with some predicting lawsuits if action wasn’t taken. The lawsuit could potentially impact thousands of affected residents, resulting in significant damages and compelling the Port and airlines to adopt more stringent environmental practices.
Community leaders are encouraging residents to comment on the Port’s Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP), which outlines future airport expansion. The outcome of this lawsuit may set a precedent for communities nationwide dealing with similar environmental and health concerns related to major airports.
