Nov. 1, 2021 (ANCHORAGE, Alaska) – The summer numbers are in. Passenger travel to the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) continued its climb back to pre-pandemic levels. For the summer of 2021, May through September, 877,351 more passengers passed through ANC when compared to last year. Assuming most of the increase in passenger traffic was due to increased tourism and a typical tourist spends $1,600 in Alaska on their vacation, additional tourists passing through ANC injected more than $1 billion dollars into Alaska’s economy.
“The tourism industry and our airline partners understood that Alaska is a highly desired destination for travelers. ANC worked very hard and proudly did our part to secure that much needed air service, which keeps Alaska’s economy moving in the right direction,” stated Jim Szczesniak, ANC airport manager. “Each tourist that comes into Alaska injects money directly into Alaska’s economy- that is money spent on hotels, restaurants, rental cars, excursions and more. Money that helps keep Alaskan businesses strong.”
The influx of flights also adds more jobs at the airport, from baggage handlers and ticketing agents to heavy equipment operators and mechanics. Job opportunities at ANC are steady, reliable and diverse. Every person working at ANC contributes to its success of drawing in tourists and catering to Alaskans that come and go.
“It’s encouraging to see such a strong return of travelers to provide much needed relief to Alaska’s tourism industry,” said Governor Mike Dunleavy. “With a full cruise season expected next year and the return of international air travel, the future is looking good for Alaska’s tourism industry.”
“This summer’s travel season started with so many headwinds for Alaska’s economy,” said Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy. “The overwhelming success of high volumes through our airports and in our towns shows the value Alaska brings as a premier destination to the world.”
The holidays are fast approaching. ANC anticipates a robust crowd of travelers anxious to spend time with family after many trips were put on hold in 2020.
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Media Contact:
Megan Peters, Communications Manager, megan.peters@alaska.gov
