Lounge Review: Alaska Airlines Lounge SeaTac North Satellite
Introduction
Stepping into the Alaska Lounge at SeaTac's North Satellite is a welcoming invitation for those that frequently fly with Alaska Airlines. Bathed in natural light and boasting stunning views of the Olympic Mountains (if it’s not raining or foggy, of course), this spacious lounge offers a welcome respite for travelers seeking a moment of tranquility before their journey. With its comfortable setup and layout on seating, Pacific Northwest-inspired decor, and attentive service, the Alaska Lounge caters to a wide range of travelers, from families to business professionals.
Location
Located on the mezzanine level of the North Satellite, the Alaska Lounge is easily accessible via escalators near gates N11-N18. Simply follow the signs for "Alaska Lounge" after passing through security. Keep in mind that if you're departing from another concourse, the journey to the North Satellite might involve a train ride and a bit of a walk. I found from train disembarkation to the lounge took around 3-4 minutes.
Access is granted to Alaska Lounge members, Alaska Lounge+ members, American Airlines Admirals Club members, and oneworld Sapphire or Emerald members traveling on qualifying international itineraries. First Class passengers on Alaska Airlines flights exceeding 2,100 miles also enjoy complimentary access. The lounge is open daily from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, providing ample time for travelers to relax before their flights.
Lounge and Layout
The Alaska Lounge boasts a spacious and open layout, with various seating zones catering to different needs. Large windows flood the lounge with natural light, offering breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains on a good day, along with a bustling airport tarmac. Comfortable armchairs are perfect for unwinding with a book, while communal worktables provide ample space for those who need to catch up on emails. The décor is a blend of Pacific Northwest charm and modern sophistication, with warm wood tones, cozy fireplaces, and subtle nods to Alaska's natural beauty. Outlets are everywhere, and I had no problem finding a place to relax and work.
Staying connected is a breeze at the Alaska Lounge, thanks to its complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. Simply connect to the "AlaskaLounge" network and you're ready to go. During my visit, the Wi-Fi was incredibly fast and reliable, with download speeds exceeding 120+ mbps, making it easy to catch up on work or stream my favorite shows. The coverage was excellent throughout the lounge, ensuring a seamless online experience no matter where I chose to settle. In fact, the upload speed is one of the fastest times I’ve seen at any airport globally!
Food and Drinks
While not offering full meals, the Alaska Lounge provides a decent selection of snacks and refreshments to satisfy pre-flight cravings. For breakfast, the buffet spread includes a selection of breads and baked goods, along with the famous pancake machine with a variety of toppings, your typical eggs, sausages and potato hot food selection, juices and some snack bars. Cold cuts and fruits are also available as well. It’s a pretty well breakfast bar!
A standout feature is the barista station, where friendly baristas craft delicious coffee creations using locally roasted beans. The coffee bar is similar to the one I had at the SFO Alaska Lounge at Terminal 1, which was fantastic. If you head a bit further in, you get a beautiful bar setup that showcases the PNW glory of the outdoors - the bar is well-stocked with complimentary regional wines and beers, including popular brands like Mac & Jacks and Pike Brewing. For those seeking something stronger, a selection of well drinks is available, and premium spirits can be purchased for a small fee.
Conclusion
The Alaska Lounge at SeaTac's North Satellite provides a comfortable and enjoyable pre-flight experience, particularly for those seeking a tranquil escape with stunning views. While the food offerings could be more substantial when compared to the Centurion lounge (which is still my favorite lounge at SeaTac), the lounge excels in its spacious layout, Pacific Northwest ambiance, barista-made coffee, and friendly service. The high-speed Wi-Fi is a major plus for business travelers and anyone needing to stay connected. Overall, the Alaska Lounge is a worthwhile stop for eligible travelers looking to relax and recharge before their journey.
