Overview

• Service is slated to begin in the first half of 2026 at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, making Alaska the 43rd state in Southwest’s network.
• Specific routes and the exact launch date were not disclosed, and tickets will go on sale when schedules are extended later this month.
• The addition brings the carrier’s U.S. footprint to 122 airports and is its fifth new destination announced this year after St. Thomas, Knoxville, Sint Maarten, and Santa Rosa.
• Alaska officials, including Transportation Commissioner Ryan Anderson and Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance, welcomed the entry as a boost to affordability, connectivity, and tourism.
• Southwest is also introducing a cabin redesign with assigned and premium seating, free WiFi for rewards members, and in-seat power on 737-8s, following its March decision to add checked-bag fees.