Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) ranks first in the United States for cargo volume and third worldwide according to Airports Council International World. Serving about 5 million passengers annually, ANC experienced over an 11 percent increase in seat capacity during the first half of 2026, the highest growth among medium and large U.S. hubs, Alaska International Airport System Development Manager Teri Lindseth said.
ANC’s Strategic Role in Global Cargo
Located on the Pacific Great Circle route near Alaska, ANC acts as a pivotal transit point for air cargo worldwide. Major carriers such as UPS and FedEx use ANC regularly for refueling, crew changes, and package
sorting en route between Asia, Europe, and the Lower 48 states. Angie Spear, director of the Alaska International Airport System, said Anchorage’s cargo ranking reflects the strength of its tenants, airline partners, workforce, and unique strategic location.
Passenger Traffic Growth and Alaska Airlines Expansion
ANC’s passenger numbers continue to grow, driven by demand for travel between Alaska and the Lower 48. Alaska Airlines expanded its 2026 spring and summer seasonal network from Anchorage with three new nonstop routes to Boise, Boston, and Spokane. Additionally, Alaska Airlines added Wednesday flights on previously Saturday-only seasonal routes between Anchorage and San Diego, and Anchorage and Sacramento. Marilyn Romano, Alaska Airlines
regional vice president for Alaska, noted these expanded routes facilitate easier access for visitors and provide more nonstop options for Alaskans.
American and Southwest Airlines New Services
American Airlines commenced a seasonal route from Anchorage to Phoenix in May 2026, operating through September 8. Southwest Airlines began seasonal service at ANC in May 2026, marking the airline’s first operations at the airport. Andrew Watterson, Southwest Airlines chief operating officer, expressed that the airline is honored to serve Anchorage and join the Alaska communities. Angie Spear added that Southwest’s arrival increases passenger choice, strengthens competition, and reinforces Anchorage’s gateway status for people and goods.
Infrastructure Expansion and Passenger Amenities
ANC recently approved
a comprehensive 20-year master plan to expand terminal facilities, gate capacity, passenger services, cargo infrastructure, and parking, alongside upgrading operational systems. A new air traffic control tower, designed by Stantec to stand 300 feet tall—double the current height—is planned, but the Federal Aviation Administration restarted the bidding process due to initial bids exceeding budget constraints. Meanwhile, ANC earned first-place honors in two Top 50 concessions categories in the Airport Experience Fact Book 2025, reflecting strong food, retail, and service offerings.
The airport offers amenities including adult changing stations, family rooms, a pet relief area, a meditation room, and the Hidden
Disabilities Sunflower program. This program distributes sunflower lanyards or wristbands to travelers needing extra assistance, providing discreet signals to staff without requiring disclosure of medical conditions, enhancing inclusivity and traveler comfort.
