Southwest Airlines will start daily flights between Las Vegas and Anchorage in the first half of 2026, connecting Harry Reid International Airport with Ted Stevens International Airport. Airline COO Andrew Watterson said, "We're adding destinations that once seemed inconceivable for Southwest in order to build a route network that creates new experiences and more possibilities than ever before," according to News3LV.
Southwest Airlines will start flights from Anchorage in May, offering once-daily red-eye trips to Las Vegas and Denver. It is not yet decided if the flights will run year-round or only in the summer. Tickets will be available in the coming weeks, but prices have not been released. COO Andrew Watterson said, "It's appropriate to connect the 49th state to our vast domestic network," as reported by ADN.
State and Anchorage officials and tourism representatives say Southwest Airlines’ new flights to Alaska are expected to create jobs and bring more visitors. The airline’s entry is also seen as supporting the airport’s plan to expand passenger and cargo services. Recently, Southwest has faced challenges with customer service and seating for plus-size passengers.
