ANCHORAGE, AK — The Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) has recently added upgrades to its terminals. The upgrades are targeted to segments of the traveling public who have special needs.
“ANC’s motto is World Class, World Close. We can’t be world class if we don’t provide a world-class experience for all travelers. These new upgrades are designed to assist the disabled traveler with a service animal, travelers who need privacy for breastfeeding, and children on the autism spectrum who find the general terminal environment overstimulating,” said Jim Szczesniak, the Anchorage Airport Director.
The new upgrades include:
Service Animal Relief Area (SARA)
SARAs are located in both the South and North terminals. The SARAs have artificial grass, waste disposal materials, and washup sinks.
Lactation Suites
New lactation suites are located in both the South and North terminals. The suites include a locking door, a chair, electrical outlets, a changing table, and a sink.
Sensory Friendly Family Room
The South Terminal family room was upgraded to provide a calming environment for children on the autism spectrum who find the airport environment overstimulating.
Outdoor Gate Area
The new outdoor gate area is located just outside of the Alaska Airlines baggage claim area on the ground level. It features a park-like setting, Wi-Fi, and widely spaced seating.
The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 237 airports, 10 ferries serving 35 communities, more than 5,600 miles of highway, and 776 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska.