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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 12th, 2026
Contact: Hailey Standish, 907-451-2596

Alaska International Airport System Encourages Travelers to Plan Ahead for Holiday Travel

(Anchorage, Alaska) – As holiday travel increases across Alaska, Anchorage and Fairbanks International Airports are preparing to welcome passengers traveling throughout the state and beyond. Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead and consider the following tips to help make their holiday travel experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible:

• Check Your Flight Status: Before leaving for the airport, check your flight status directly with your airline. Travelers are encouraged to sign up for flight notifications or download their airline's mobile app to receive real-time updates and stay informed of any schedule changes.
• Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure to allow plenty of time for parking, check-in, and security screening. Passengers are also encouraged to follow their airline’s specific arrival recommendations, especially when traveling internationally.
• Winter Weather: Travelers are encouraged to monitor weather and road conditions, allow extra time to get to the airport, and stay informed of potential flight delays or cancellations by checking directly with their airline.
• Know Before You Go with TSA: Familiarize yourself with TSA screening procedures before traveling. Visit TSA's travel tips website or use the "What Can I Bring?" feature to check which items are permitted in carry-on and checked baggage.
• Follow the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule: When packing carry-on luggage, remember that liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and fit inside one quart-sized, clear bag, with one bag permitted per passenger. Following TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule can help prevent delays at the security checkpoint. Larger quantities may be packed in checked baggage, subject to applicable restrictions.
• Be Prepared at Security: Have your identification and travel documents readily accessible when approaching the security checkpoint. Keep electronics and your liquids bag easy to reach in case they need to be removed for screening. Follow instructions from TSA officers, as screening procedures may vary depending on the equipment and screening lane.
• Pack Holiday Gifts with Care: Traveling with presents? Wrapped gifts are permitted in carry-on and checked baggage, but TSA officers may need to unwrap them for additional screening. Consider using gift bags or waiting until you reach your destination to wrap presents to help keep the screening process moving smoothly.
• Plan Ahead for Parking: Airport parking can fill up quickly during the busy holiday season. FAI offers short-term and long-term parking, while ANC provides several options, including its short-term parking garage, long-term parking, North Terminal parking, and Park, Ride, and Fly lot. Travelers are encouraged to allow extra time to find parking or consider alternative transportation, including taxis, rideshares, public transportation, or arranging for someone to drop them off or pick them up.

“The holidays are one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and our teams at Anchorage and Fairbanks International Airports are committed to keeping passengers moving safely and efficiently,” said Angie Spear, Alaska International Airport System Director. “A little preparation goes a long way. We encourage travelers to arrive early, check their flight status, and allow extra time for winter weather and holiday crowds. Our teams work hard every day to keep Alaska connected, and we look forward to welcoming travelers throughout the holiday season.”

For more information about the Alaska International Airport System visit https://dot.alaska.gov/aias/

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 237 airports, 9 ferries serving 35 communities along 3,500 marine miles, over 5,600 miles of highway and 839 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to “Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure

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About Fairbanks International Airport

Fairbanks International Airport is the gateway to Alaska’s interior and Denali National Park. It’s one half of the Alaska International Airport System and serves more than a million passengers annually. Equipped to handle any size and type of aircraft, anytime, with state-of-the-art landing systems and terminal facilities. Accounts for 1 in 20 jobs for a total of 1,900 jobs in Fairbanks.  

About DOT&PF

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 237 airports, 9 ferries serving 35 communities along 3,500 marine miles, over 5,600 miles of highway and 839 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to “Keep Alaska Moving.”

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