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Southwest Airlines has announced plans to begin flights to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) in Alaska. The new service is scheduled to start in the first half of 2026, with flights operating from Denver International Airport (DEN) and Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas. The airline will release its detailed schedule for Anchorage later in October.
This move is part of a broader expansion for Southwest Airlines in 2025. Earlier this year, the company revealed new destinations that will be added to its network in 2026, including McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) near Knoxville, Tennessee; Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten; Cyrus E. King International Airport (STT) in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Charles M. Schulz — Sonoma County Airport (STS) in Santa Rosa, California.
The expansion comes as Southwest makes significant changes to its operations and policies. In May, the airline introduced bag fees for the first time and plans to transition from an open-seating policy to assigned seats starting January 2026, which will include an extra-legroom premium option. The carrier has also established new international partnerships and is considering additional offerings such as long-haul international flights, premium lounges, and possibly a first-class cabin.
