Anchorage Airport: Efficient Travel Through Multiple Gates

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, located in Alaska, is a pivotal cargo hub and gateway between the US and Asia. The airport is organised into two terminals: the North Terminal, which has 8 gates, and the South Terminal, which has 24 gates, for a total of 32 gates. The North Terminal primarily handles international flights, while the South Terminal caters to domestic flights.

The airport's history

The Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport has a rich history that dates back to the late 1940s. In 1948, Congress approved funding for two "international-type" airports in Anchorage and Fairbanks, Alaska. Construction began soon after, with Anchorage building an 8,400-foot east-west runway and a 5,000-foot north-south runway. Airfield operations commenced in December 1951, with the airport being served by Alaska Airlines, Northwest Orient, Pacific Northern Airlines, and Reeve Aleutian Airways in the 1950s. The airport was also a refuelling stop for Canadian Pacific Air Lines service to the Far East.

In 1952, construction of the first terminal began, and it officially opened in 1953. This marked an important milestone in American aviation, with Anchorage International Airport becoming a vital hub for Alaska. By the 1960s, the airport had established itself as the "Air Crossroads of the World", with seven international carriers using it as a regular stop-over between Europe, Asia, and the Eastern US. To accommodate the growing jet service, the original east-west runway was extended to 10,600 feet in 1960.

The 1964 North American earthquake, the largest in magnitude (9.2), caused significant damage to the airport, including the collapse of the main control tower. A temporary control tower was built east of Concourse A and used until 1977. In 1966, the airport introduced the International Hexagon Terminal, nicknamed "the Hex". The following years saw further expansion, with the construction of Concourse B, the ticket lobby, and baggage claim, forming what is now known as the South Terminal.

The 1970s brought substantial business to Anchorage due to the North Slope oil and the trans-Alaska Pipeline. This decade also saw a significant increase in international passenger traffic. In 1978, construction began on the international satellite terminal, later named the North Terminal. The 1980s were a mixed bag, with a strong start due to oil royalties, followed by a decline as oil prices slid. Despite this, international passenger traffic continued to grow, and in 1989, Russian airspace was opened, providing alternate routes for international flights.

The airport underwent various expansion and improvement projects in the 1990s, including the renovation of the South Terminal and the construction of a new concourse. In 2000, the airport was renamed Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport in honour of Alaska's senior US Senator, Ted Stevens. The airport continued to evolve, with new facilities and expansions in the following years, solidifying its role as a significant aviation hub in Alaska.

Gate connection times

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport offers a free shuttle service that connects the North and South Terminals. The shuttle runs every 15 minutes, and the journey between the terminals takes approximately 5–10 minutes.

If you are connecting between terminals, it is important to check your airline information before heading to the correct terminal. Some airlines operate out of the North Terminal, while others operate out of the South Terminal. The North Terminal is primarily used for domestic flights, and the South Terminal handles both domestic and international flights.

When navigating the terminals, it is recommended to double-check your terminal before arriving at the airport, especially if flying with Alaska Airlines, as they operate from both terminals. This will save you time and stress. If you have limited mobility or heavy luggage, the shuttle bus is a convenient option. However, if you are in a hurry and have light luggage, the pedestrian walkway between the terminals is a faster choice.

To avoid delays and stress, it is advisable to check the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) for real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Additionally, downloading your airline's mobile app can provide valuable real-time updates during the winter months when weather delays are more common. Arriving early is also suggested when travelling during peak times, as lines can get long, especially at security.

Dining options

The Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport offers a wide range of dining options for travellers, ranging from quick bites to full-service dining. Here is a detailed list of the dining options at the airport:

Starbucks

The well-known coffee chain, Starbucks, is available at the airport, offering coffee, tea, and pastries. It is a good option for travellers looking to relax and enjoy a familiar coffee before their flight.

McDonald's

McDonald's is a familiar option for a quick bite, serving their classic burgers, fries, and other fast-food items. It is open 24 hours, making it convenient for travellers at any time of the day.

Norton Sound Seafood House

Norton Sound Seafood House is a unique dining option at the airport, serving fresh, local seafood options such as halibut, salmon, and crab. It is located on both sides of security, making it accessible for travellers.

Silver Gulch Brewing & Bottling Co.

Silver Gulch Brewing & Bottling Co. is a local favourite, offering a selection of craft beers and casual pub grub. It is a good choice for travellers looking to taste local Alaskan brews and enjoy a relaxed meal.

Cinnabon

Cinnabon, located near Gate B5, is known for its aromatic cinnamon rolls and sweet treats, perfect for travellers with a sweet tooth.

Alaska Doghaus

Located near Gate B3, Alaska Doghaus is a local favourite serving gourmet hot dogs with unique and delectable toppings.

Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse

Humpy's, near Gate B3, is a popular local chain offering a wide selection of Alaskan beers and hearty pub fare. It is a good option for travellers looking to taste local beers and enjoy a hearty meal.

Sushi on the Fly

Sushi on the Fly, near Gate C6, offers quick and delicious sushi options for travellers looking for a light and healthy meal before their flight. They also have a beer garden with 16 beers on tap and a full bar.

Upper One Lounge

Upper One Lounge is a hidden gem located outside security, offering a full bar and a food menu with wings, nachos, quesadillas, and more. It is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a drink before your flight.

Anchorage Marketplace

Anchorage Marketplace is a decent option for prepackaged sandwiches, salads, and breakfast items. They also serve a breakfast burrito and are one of the few places open early in the morning.

49th State Brewing Company

49th State Brewing Company has a creative and ambitious tap list with unique beers and sours. They also offer above-average bar food and have a great bar layout.

Denali Pretzels & Coffee Co.

Denali Pretzels & Coffee Co. offers coffee, pastries, and massive, gooey pretzels. They have two locations at the airport, one pre-security and one post-security, making it convenient for travellers.

The Kobuk to go Tea & Candy

This unique spot serves hot tea and a variety of Alaskan candy, providing a different experience for travellers looking for something beyond the typical dining options.

Shopping options

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport has a wide variety of shopping options for travellers to browse before their flight. The airport features a mix of gift shops, convenience stores, and specialty stores offering a range of items, from souvenirs and travel essentials to local Alaskan products and artwork.

One popular gift shop is Moosetique, which offers a variety of Alaskan-themed souvenirs and gifts. Here, you can find shirts, pyjamas, slippers, stuffed animals, quirky magnets, notepads, water bottles, and other trinkets to remember your trip by. If you're looking for something more high-end, Aurora Artistry and The Travel Shop offer unique, quality gifts, including jewellery, local art, and T-shirts.

For those with a sweet tooth, the airport has a store called AK&CO Gourmet Market, which offers reasonably priced gifts and snacks, including made-in-Alaska chocolates, as well as smoked salmon, reindeer sausage, and other locally sourced food items.

If you're looking for some reading material for your flight, Mosquito Books offers a selection of books and magazines, while the bookstore named after Alaska's unofficial insect, the mosquito, offers guidebooks, regional maps, hiking trail maps, and journals.

For tech and entertainment needs, InMotion Entertainment, the largest airport-based electronics and entertainment retailer in the nation, offers tablets, netbooks, digital cameras, pocket camcorders, DVD players, noise-cancelling headphones, and accessories.

With its variety of shopping options, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport provides travellers with plenty of opportunities to browse and purchase unique items, local products, and convenient travel essentials before their departure.

Transport options

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport offers a range of ground transportation options to help travellers get to their final destination.

Car Rentals

If you are looking to rent a car, there are several car rental facilities available at the airport, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. These providers offer a range of vehicle types to suit any traveller's needs. The rental car providers are conveniently located opposite the South Terminal in the Rental Car Centre.

Taxis

If you prefer to take a taxi, there are designated taxi drop-off areas located outside the baggage claim area. Fares are based on the meter and vary depending on the destination. It is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before beginning your trip.

Ride Share Services

Shared ride services are also available at the airport. These services offer a more affordable option for travellers who don't mind sharing a ride with others. Pickup areas are located outside the baggage claim area, and restrictions may apply depending on the service provider. Uber and Lyft are two rideshare services that service the airport.

Airport Shuttles

Airport shuttles are a convenient way to get to your destination. These shuttles operate 24/7 and offer pickup and drop-off services to various locations in Anchorage. Fares vary depending on the destination, and reservations are recommended.

Public Transportation

For those looking for public transportation options, the People Mover bus system offers service to and from the airport. The bus stop is located outside the baggage claim area, and fares are based on the distance travelled. The People Mover bus service provides an affordable and hassle-free way to travel to the airport, connecting key locations throughout Anchorage.

Frequently asked questions