More than 15,000 passengers pass through ANC each week this holiday season. Give yourself extra time and stay calm with a pit stop at the airport’s meditation room!
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
The holiday travel season is in full swing across the United States, and Alaska is no exception. From Ted Stevens Anchorage International to major hubs on the Lower 48, travelers are facing packed flights, winter weather, and potential delays. Here’s what you need to know to make your journey smoother.
The National Picture
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the holiday travel window from December 18 through 27 is shaping up to be one of the busiest in recent years. December 19 alone saw nearly 52,000 flights take to the skies. Weather remains the top cause of delays and cancellations, with snow, ice, and winter storms affecting major hubs from the Midwest to the Northeast.
Airlines including American, Delta, Southwest, United, and JetBlue have issued flexible rebooking options and waived change fees to help passengers navigate disruptions. Travelers are advised to check flight status before heading to the airport and allow extra time for security and boarding.
Alaska Travel Conditions
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and other airports in the Alaska International Airport System remain fully operational, but travelers should anticipate fuller flights and tighter connections. Previous FAA staffing adjustments raised concerns about potential reductions, but Alaska airports have managed to maintain services with minimal impact.
Flight cancellations and delays in Anchorage have been lower than at larger U.S. hubs, but winter weather and busy schedules can still create challenges. Experts recommend flying early in the day and avoiding tight connections when possible to reduce the risk of missing a connecting flight.
Finding Calm at ANC
For travelers feeling the stress of crowded terminals and holiday lines, ANC has introduced a meditation room. Located in the B Concourse across from Denali Spirits, just past Gate B4, the room offers a peaceful space to unwind. With views of the airport ramp filled with planes, travelers can take a moment to decompress, reset, and find some inner calm before heading to their gates. It’s an ideal spot for anyone needing a pause amid the hustle of holiday travel.
Winter Weather and Delays
Severe winter weather continues to affect travel across the country. A recent ground stop at New York’s LaGuardia caused over 1,000 delays and more than 200 cancellations. Even if flights in Alaska are mostly on schedule, connecting flights through busy hubs like Seattle may be delayed, impacting travel plans.
Tips for a Smoother Holiday Journey
- Check your flight status on the day of travel using airline apps or official airport websites.
- Arrive early to accommodate busy security lines and holiday crowds.
- Fly in the morning when possible, as early flights are less likely to be delayed.
- Choose flexible tickets that allow for easy changes without extra fees.
- Build in extra connection time to avoid missing flights if delays occur.
- Take advantage of airport resources like ANC’s meditation room to relax and recharge while waiting for your flight.
Looking Ahead
Federal efforts to secure continued pay for air traffic controllers during future government shutdowns aim to prevent disruptions like those seen earlier in the year. For travelers this means smoother operations and fewer last-minute cancellations.
By planning ahead, staying informed, and giving yourself extra time, your holiday travel from Alaska or anywhere in the U.S. can be less stressful and more enjoyable. Remember that a little preparation and a moment of calm go a long way when thousands of flights are in the air at the same time.
