Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
Anchorage, Alaska
Friday, May 15th, 2026
On a beautiful Friday evening, with the ever hanging late sun at 9:15 pm, Southwest Airlines’ Inaugural Flight 3094 touched down at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Passengers were treated to the ceremonial water cannon salute upon entry to the B concourse. At the gate, Seymour the Moose from Visit Anchorage made a grand appearance to deboarding passengers. Southwest will now be offering seasonal nonstop flights to Denver and Las Vegas from Anchorage, Alaska.
‘Southwest’s entry into the Alaska market builds on the strong growth strategies ANC has pursued in both passenger and cargo service. In recent years, ANC has seen record-setting volumes and rising demand, making it one of the busiest cargo airports in the world and a critical hub for Alaska’s economy.’ ANC PR.
“Air travel is a lifeline in Alaska, and Southwest’s arrival in Anchorage is a major win for our communities,” said Ryan Anderson, Commissioner of the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. “This service will provide more affordable, reliable connections for Alaskans and help share our great state with more visitors than ever before.”
“This will be a big economic boost for Anchorage and all of southcentral Alaska,” said Suzanne LaFrance, Mayor of Anchorage. “We are excited to share our rich cultural heritage, magnificent landscapes, and diverse community with a larger group of travelers.”
Sources
Southwest Airlines Press Release, Oct, 2025
TSAIA Facebook Post, May 17, 2026
Southwest Airlines arrives in Southcentral Alaska, KTUU News / Alaska News Source
Monday, May 18th, 2026