Southwest Airlines Expands to Alaska, Boosting Tourism and Economy
Alaska is set to welcome Southwest Airlines, with the addition of Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) to its network. This marks the airline's 122nd destination and makes Alaska the 43rd state served by Southwest. The new service is expected to boost the local economy and increase tourism.
Southwest will begin seasonal flights to ANC in May 2026, connecting it to Denver and Las Vegas. Tickets for these routes will go on sale in October 2025. The airline's unique boarding policy, which doesn't involve assigned seats, will end in January 2026. This change comes after Southwest announced the end of its two free checked bags allowance in May 2025.
ANC, which has seen record-breaking volumes and growing demand, will be the fifth new destination Southwest has revealed this year. It joins other U.S. airlines like Delta Air Lines and American Airlines that already serve the airport. Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance anticipates a significant economic boost for the city and southcentral Alaska due to Southwest's new service.
Southwest Airlines' entry into the Alaska market is expected to provide more affordable and reliable connections for Alaskans and increase tourism. With seasonal flights to ANC starting in May 2026, the airline continues its expansion, now serving 122 airports across 43 states.
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