Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) maintained its position as the United States’ leading airport for cargo volume and ranked third worldwide according to Airports Council International World. The airport handled approximately 5 million passengers annually and recorded an 11 percent year-over-year increase in seat capacity during the first half of 2026 across medium and large U.S. hubs.
2026 Airline Route Expansions from Anchorage
Alaska Airlines expanded its seasonal services from ANC in 2026 with three nonstop routes to Boise, Boston, and Spokane. The airline also introduced an additional Wednesday flight on routes to San Diego and Sacramento, which had operated on Saturdays only previously. American
Airlines launched a seasonal route connecting Anchorage and Phoenix starting in May 2026 through September 8, 2026. Southwest Airlines began seasonal service at ANC in May 2026, increasing passenger options.
Alaska Airlines regional vice president Marilyn Romano noted that the expanded network facilitates easier access for visitors and residents traveling between Alaska and the Lower 48. Southwest Airlines chief operating officer Andrew Watterson expressed appreciation for the welcome from Alaska officials and praised the opportunity to connect customers to Anchorage’s culture and history.
Strategic Location Supports Global Cargo and Passenger Growth
ANC’s location on the Pacific Great Circle route positions it as a major transit hub for air
cargo moving between Asia, Europe, and North America. Major cargo carriers such as UPS and FedEx utilize the airport for refueling, crew changes, and package processing. According to Angie Spear, director of the Alaska International Airport System, ANC’s cargo ranking reflects the strength of its tenants, workforce, and geographic advantages.
Ryan Anderson, commissioner of the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, emphasized that Anchorage’s status as the top U.S. cargo airport highlights Alaska’s role in global supply chains and the importance of continued investment in aviation infrastructure to support economic growth.
Infrastructure and Service Improvements Planned
ANC approved a comprehensive twenty-year master plan to
guide future development. Planned projects include terminal expansion, increased gate capacity, enhanced passenger amenities, upgraded cargo infrastructure, parking improvements, and operational system modernization. The plan’s phased approach allows flexibility in managing growth and improvements.
A new air traffic control tower designed by Stantec would rise 300 feet, becoming Alaska’s tallest occupied building. However, the Federal Aviation Administration restarted the bidding process in fall 2025 after high initial bids, deferring tower construction indefinitely.
The Airport Experience Fact Book 2025 awarded ANC’s concessions program first place in two Top 50 performance categories for its food, retail, and service offerings. The airport incorporates
local and national brands to enhance passenger experience and offers amenities including an adult changing station, family room, pet relief area, meditation room, and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. This program distributes discreet sunflower lanyards and wristbands to signal travelers needing additional assistance without revealing medical details.
