Anchorage Airports Guide: Terminals, Transport, and Essential Information

Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city and the air crossroads of the world, is served primarily by one major international airport and supported by smaller specialist aviation facilities. Due to its strategic position on great-circle routes between North America and Asia, Anchorage is a critical global cargo hub and the primary gateway for travellers heading into Alaska and the Arctic.

This guide explains every airport serving Anchorage, including IATA codes, terminal layouts, and clear, plain-English explanations of how to get to and from each one.

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC)

Overview: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (IATA: ANC) is Alaska’s main airport and one of the busiest cargo airports in the world. Located approximately 10 km (6 miles) southwest of downtown Anchorage, it is a major hub for Alaska Airlines and a key refuelling and technical stop for international flights. It also handles large volumes of seasonal tourism traffic and year-round intra-Alaska flights.

Terminals:

• South Terminal (Domestic): The main terminal for most domestic flights, including Alaska Airlines, Delta, United, and other major US carriers. It houses Concourses B and C.
• North Terminal (International): Handles all international arrivals and departures and some regional domestic services. It houses Concourse A.

Note: The terminals are connected by a covered walkway (5–10 minutes) and a free shuttle bus running every 15–20 minutes.

Getting to and from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC):

• Rental Car (Most Popular & Recommended):
  A consolidated rental car facility serves all terminals via free shuttle buses. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Anchorage and the wider region, including the Seward Highway, Glenn Highway, and access to national parks and wilderness areas.
• Ride-hailing (Uber & Lyft):
  Uber and Lyft operate reliably in Anchorage with designated pickup zones outside baggage claim. A ride to downtown typically costs $20–$35 and takes around 15–20 minutes.
• Taxi:
  Taxis are readily available outside both terminals with metered fares similar to ride-hailing prices.
• Hotel Shuttles:
  Many Anchorage hotels provide complimentary airport shuttles. Always confirm pickup instructions with your hotel in advance.
• Public Bus (People Mover Route 7):
  Route 7 connects the South Terminal area with downtown Anchorage. It is very affordable but has limited frequency, especially evenings and weekends, making it suitable only for travellers with light luggage and flexible schedules.

Best for: All international travellers, most domestic passengers, and anyone connecting onward within Alaska.

Merrill Field (MRI)

Overview: Merrill Field is a general aviation airport located about 3 km (2 miles) from downtown Anchorage. It is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the US, serving private aircraft, flight schools, air taxis, and charter flights to remote Alaskan destinations.

Important: Merrill Field does not handle scheduled commercial airline service and should not be confused with ANC.

Lake Hood Seaplane Base (LHD)

Overview: Adjacent to Ted Stevens Airport, Lake Hood is the world’s busiest seaplane base. It is the departure point for countless bush planes and air taxis serving fishing lodges, wilderness camps, and remote Alaskan villages.

Best for: Travellers embarking on floatplane adventures into Alaska’s backcountry.

Which Anchorage Airport Should You Choose?

For all commercial airline travel, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is your arrival point.

Merrill Field and Lake Hood are only relevant for private, charter, or bush plane travel.

Important Considerations for Ted Stevens Airport (ANC)

International Arrivals and Transfers:
All passengers arriving from outside the United States must clear US Customs and Border Protection at ANC, even if continuing onward to another US city. This includes baggage collection and re-checking.

Domestic Connections:
Connections within Alaska and to the Lower 48 are generally straightforward, with most domestic flights operating from the South Terminal.

Facilities:
Both terminals offer dining options, souvenir shops with native art and outdoor gear, free WiFi, and excellent mountain views. The South Terminal also features exhibits on Alaskan aviation history.

Seasonal Travel Notes:
Summer (June–August) is peak season and extremely busy — book cars and accommodation well in advance. Winter travel offers northern lights viewing but requires preparation for snow and cold weather disruptions.

Arrival and Departure Tips:
For domestic flights, arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure. For international flights, arrive 2.5–3 hours early. TSA PreCheck is available.

Bottom line: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is an efficient and scenic gateway to Alaska. For most visitors, renting a car is the best choice for freedom and access to the state’s vast wilderness. If arriving internationally, be prepared for mandatory US customs clearance. From mountain views at the terminal to bush planes lifting off nearby, ANC offers a uniquely Alaskan arrival experience.