TSA Checkpoint Central – Seattle/Tacoma International Airport

Almost always use the Central TSA Checkpoint when going through the airport here. It is not as if I have to use this checkpoint. There are other ones to choose from, which may be faster or slower depending on the day and time. I just prefer to use this one since it is the one closest to the Central Terminal food court as I typically get a bite at the airport before my flight.
As I mention above, getting through the TSA Checkpoint varies by day and time. My experience using this checkpoint is that it can take a while to get through. Particularly if TSA is slow to open new lines or there is a backup in the screening area. So I feel like my rating of this checkpoint fluctuates up and down because of this.
In general, you should arrive 90 minutes to 2 hours before your flight. Getting through the checkpoint can take a half hour if it is crowded. And if you have to check in baggage, it doesn’t give you a lot of time to make it to the gate. Especially if the gate is at one of the Satellite Terminals requiring a people mover train ride.
On average, I would have to rate this checkpoint 3 stars. Though it can be 2 or 4 star experiences at times. 2 stars when the lines are slow to move and TSA isn’t making an effort to balance out the waiting lines and 4 stars when they do and you get shifted to a TSA Pre Check line for a faster screening. But never a 1 star experience here because I make sure to arrive with time to spare.

What keeps me coming back? I have no choice. I travel, therefore I go through a TSA checkpoint.
It’s easy to dis’ the TSA, but they have a job to do and I think they do okay. No, you’re not gonna like it. It’s not a great experience. During the busiest travel times, there’s a line down the hall. Give yourself extra time to get through security.
Most of the folks working here are friendly if you make some small talk or engage them. You get what you give, so if you spew some negativity, you’re likely to get it right back.