Southwest Heads North: Anchorage To Join Its Route Network in 2026

Updated: October 2, 2025, 12:32pm CDT

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Southwest Sets Course for Alaska With New Anchorage Service in 2026
Final Thoughts

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Southwest Airlines is heading to Alaska for the first time. Starting in 2026, the carrier will launch flights to Anchorage (ANC), giving travelers more ways to experience the natural beauty of the 49th state — plus more affordable options for Alaskans heading south.

Let’s take a look at the details of this new route.

Southwest Sets Course for Alaska With New Anchorage Service in 2026

Southwest Airlines announced plans to begin service to Anchorage’s Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) in the first half of 2026. The exact route schedule will be released later this month when the airline opens its next booking window.

This marks Southwest’s first entry into Alaska, a destination already served by major U.S. carriers like Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

Anchorage Skyline — Starting in the first half of 2026, Southwest will debut new flights to Anchorage, Alaska. Exact routes haven’t been announced yet, but we should know the details later this month. Image Credit: Andriy Stefanyshyn via Adobe Stock

Anchorage will mark Southwest’s 122nd airport served and its 43rd state, further cementing the carrier’s position as the U.S. airline with the most nonstop domestic flights. Local leaders celebrated the announcement, citing both the economic benefits and the additional connectivity Southwest will bring to the region.

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

At the same time, Southwest continues to roll out cabin upgrades across its fleet, including assigned and premium seating, free Wi-Fi for Rapid Rewards members, and in-seat power on newer Boeing 737-8 aircraft. These improvements are set to make longer flights — like those to Alaska — more comfortable.

Hot Tip:

When Southwest’s new Anchorage flights launch in 2026, you’ll be able to redeem your Rapid Rewards points for these routes. If you’re not already earning points, there are plenty of ways to start. Use a Southwest co-branded credit card, or transfer points from Chase Ultimate Rewards, Bilt Rewards, or Marriott Bonvoy to quickly build up your balance for your trip to Alaska.

Final Thoughts

Southwest’s decision to add Anchorage is a big milestone, giving travelers a new way to explore Alaska with all the benefits of flying Southwest. Whether you’re planning an adventure to see glaciers and wildlife or you’re an Alaskan traveler looking for more affordable flight options to the lower 48, this new service is set to open the door to more connections than ever before.