In Anchorage, Alaska, the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is a key bridge connecting North America to Asia and other parts of the world. ANC is named after Ted Stevens, a key lawmaker from Alaska, and serves as an important connection for moving passengers and cargo. With speedy services, beautiful scenery, and an easy layout, the airport helps travelers appreciate the wonders of the Last Frontier. You'll have a comfortable experience whether you are flying in for a beautiful vacation, a business trip, or just a connecting flight at Ted Stevens Airport, Anchorage. Travelers who want the best prices and flight deals to or from ANC should book Frontier Airlines to Anchorage using Faresmatch, a safe online booking service for major carriers.
Location and Accessibility
- With Downtown Anchorage only 5 miles to the north, ANC airport is convenient to reach with your car, by taxi, rideshare or by using public transit. Since the airport is along International Airport Road and Minnesota Drive, so access to important highways and various city attractions is quick.
- If you don't drive, you can use the Anchorage People Mover Bus System to travel between the city center and Ted Stevens International Airport, including Route 40 from downtown Anchorage. If you want to take a ride with Uber or Lyft, you'll find designated areas for pickup within the areas just outside the baggage claim.
- You will find there are many parking spaces at ANC. You have the choice of short-term, long-term, and economy parking at the airport, together with a Cell Phone Waiting Lot for anyone waiting to pick people up. To make things easy, the parking lots are joined to the terminals by covered passageways that guard against the unusual weather in Alaska.
Airports and Airlines
Every gateway is designed for different reasons and welcomes certain airlines and types of flights.
- At South Terminal, you can book domestic flights with Alaska Air, Delta, United, American Airlines, Frontier Flights. You'll find three concourses—A, B, and C—in the South Terminal connected by walkways, each one marked with clear signs and staff that are ready to help visitors.
- All international flights and chartered activities use the North Terminal. The North Terminal’s seasonal and small operations are vital for connecting the city with different cities in Asia and Europe. It is also a stop for planes carrying passengers or goods from overseas.
- The large amount of freight at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport comes from the airport's position near the famous North American to Asian flight path. UPS and FedEx run big operations at ANC, making the airport well-known around the world.
Passenger Services and Amenities
- ANC may not be as big as many U.S. airports, but it still provides plenty of services and amenities to its passengers. Some of the services are:
- At the airport, you will discover both local Alaskan dishes and popular chain restaurants for your meal. Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse and Norton Sound Seafood House are very popular, due to their fresh seafood and regional foods. When you want something fast, there are plenty of fast-food shops, including Starbucks and McDonald's. Stores offering travel items, Alaska souvenirs, books, and art are found in each terminal for your convenience.
- You can use free Wi-Fi all over the airport and there are charging stations located near seats for you to use.
- Alaska Airlines Lounge and several other ANC lounges are accessible to passengers and these lounges provide re-energizing refreshments, online access, and relaxed seating for frequent passengers and first-class users.
- Alaskan culture is highlighted at the airport because of its art installations, murals, and exhibits. Exhibits in the park showcase indigenous pieces, past artifacts and photos of wildlife, all highlighting Alaska's heritage.
- Pet relief areas are available outside all terminals at this airport. Those visiting the South Terminal with children will find it easy to use the nursing rooms and play areas.
Travel Tips for ANC
- It's best to arrive at the airport early during winter since Alaskan weather can easily impact your travel plans. Make sure to arrive before your flight in winter and watch flight changes closely.
- If you can’t get to your destination on a long layover, try exploring downtown Anchorage or visiting Kincaid Park which is just a short drive or bus trip from the airport. Certain tour organizers plan excursions during your stopover in the area’s wilderness so you can enjoy it.
- Running through security at ANC is generally fast, especially when you are in the South Terminal. Longer lines are possible during the busiest summer travel period and during holidays, so be sure to plan to grab flight deals.
- At the North Terminal, International travelers will find the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Going through security usually takes a little time, but you need to have your documents prepared for inspection.
Seasonal Operations and Classification as a Cargo Hub
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is unique in that it serves as a major passenger terminal and a major cargo airport. Because it is in the middle of the travel route between North America and Asia, the airport is counted among the world's top airports for cargo traffic. Because of chartering, aircraft can quickly refuel and change crew, ensuring few delays and accurate delivery schedules. As the year goes on and people come to Alaska's parks, cruise ports, and wild places for vacation, the airport gets busier. You'll find that airlines schedule extra flights to and from ANC during the summer, linking the airport with many places in the Lower 48 and a few foreign destinations too.
