Boeing Field control tower repairs severely restrict flights

Emergency repairs at Boeing Field’s control tower are causing flight delays and restrictions as controllers work from a temporary location.

Depending on conditions, arrivals and departures could drop to just a few per hour. Some arriving planes may be instructed to circle over downtown Bellevue while waiting to land.

King County said flight training involving repeated takeoffs and landings, known as pattern work, is prohibited. Aircraft also cannot pass through the airport’s airspace under visual flight rules. The automated terminal information service, which provides pilots with weather and airport information, is unavailable.

Emergency flights are still permitted. The restrictions will remain in place until further notice.

Additional restrictions could be imposed as needed. The airport said it will issue notices to pilots and post updates on its website.

Boeing Field, officially King County International Airport, is four miles south of downtown Seattle. It serves cargo carriers, small commercial passenger airlines, private and corporate aircraft, helicopters, and military flights.

This is a developing story, check back for updates.