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Adventure awaits: Southwest adding Alaska service starting in 2026

By Mark Reif Oct 4, 2025 9:23 AM

Anchorage, Alaska — Anchorage, Alaska Yuhan Du via Unsplash / Unsplash

This week, Southwest Airlines announced new service to a land of adventure via Alaska’s Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, starting in the first half of 2026. Eager explorers can book flights later this month. Anchorage is Southwest’s fifth new route announced in 2025, and grows the airline’s airport network to 122. Southwest flies more domestic non-stop routes than any other airline, and Alaska will be its 43rd state served.

A boost for Alaska and adventurous travelers

“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.”

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Suzanne LaFrance, Mayor of Anchorage, added: “This will be a big economic boost for Anchorage and all of southcentral Alaska. We are excited to share our rich cultural heritage, magnificent landscapes, and diverse community with a larger group of travelers.”

“We’re adding destinations that once seemed inconceivable for Southwest in order to build a route network that creates new experiences and more possibilities than ever before,” said Andrew Watterson, Chief Operating Officer at Southwest Airlines. “We look forward to connecting our Customers to the rich history and culture of Anchorage and connecting the 49th state to our vast domestic network.”

Alongside Southwest’s route announcements, the airline is enhancing its cabins with free Wi-Fi for all Rapid Rewards members via T-Mobile, adding in-seat power to all Boeing 737-8 aircraft, and selling assigned and premium seating on all flights.

Mark Reif is a storyteller focused on the intersection of outdoor culture, travel, and design. From the peaks of Banff to the… Read Full Bio

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