Ted Stevens Anchorage Airport Expands as 5 New Cargo Carriers Boost Operations
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) recently announced the addition of five new cargo carriers, further cementing its role as a pivotal hub in global logistics.
This expansion comes as the airport reports a nearly 5% year-over-year increase in cargo activity, with another 2% growth projected for fiscal year 2025.
The new carriers—Awesome Cargo Airlines, Central Airlines of China, ASL Air Cargo, Aerologic Air Cargo, and CMA CGM Air Cargo—add significant capacity, linking North America with Asia, Mexico, and beyond.
Strategic Expansion to Support Growth
Governor Mike Dunleavy highlighted the importance of these additions to Anchorage’s strategic expansion. “We are excited to welcome five new cargo carriers to Anchorage International Airport,” he said, calling the milestone essential to establishing ANC as a global cargo hub. He also pointed to the airport’s investment in state-of-the-art infrastructure, from increased warehousing to expanded ramp space, which will support the growing needs of air freight.
Deputy Airport Director Teri Lindseth noted that while Anchorage recently dropped to fourth place behind Shanghai in global cargo rankings, the addition of these new carriers could restore its position to third. The airport expects an annual revenue increase of approximately $9 million, about a 7% rise.
New Routes Linking Global Markets
Awesome Cargo Airlines began operations in July on the ICN-ANC-Mexico City route, using Airbus A330-200F freighters, strengthening trade between Asia and North America. Central Airlines of China commenced in September, connecting Shenzhen and Ontario, California, with ANC using Boeing 777s, while Belgian carrier ASL Air Cargo now flies the Jinan-ANC-New York route multiple times monthly with its 747-400 freighters. Aerologic Air Cargo has introduced routes from Guangzhou and Hong Kong to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky, operating Boeing 777F freighters, and CMA CGM Air Cargo now serves routes from Hong Kong to Dallas and Chicago.
“Anchorage has always been a key player in the world of air cargo,” said Department of Transportation & Public Facilities Commissioner Ryan Anderson. “The arrival of these new carriers underscores our importance in global logistics and strengthens our reputation as a trusted partner in international trade.”
Infrastructure Expansion to Meet Growing Demand
To support this growth, Anchorage is advancing several projects, including the Northlink Aviation expansion at the south terminal, which will feature hard stands for wide-body aircraft, modern warehousing, and glycol recycling facilities. Additional expansions at ANC’s FedEx hub and Signature Aviation’s corporate terminal are also underway, with Alaska Cargo and Cold Storage planning to start construction next summer.
As the only U.S. airport with higher cargo traffic than ANC, Memphis remains a close competitor. However, Gov. Dunleavy emphasized Anchorage’s unique global positioning: “Our proximity to Asian markets has made us a leader in cargo shipping. With the addition of these new carriers, we’ll be even more competitive.”
