Aviation built Alaska, supports thousands of jobs, and adds billions of dollars to our economy. A recently released report, the 2019 Economic Contribution of the Aviation Industry to Alaska’s Economy presents an economic analysis of Alaska’s aviation industry.
The report shows that the aviation industry supports more than 35,000 jobs statewide while adding more than $3.8 billion annually to the economy. The Alaska International Aviation System, comprised of Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and Fairbanks International Airport generate more than 26,000 jobs. In Anchorage, 1 in 10 jobs are attributed to the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and in Fairbanks, 1 in 13 jobs are attributed to Fairbanks International Airport.
“The economic strength of Alaska’s aviation industry clearly shows the economy is becoming more diverse and growing,” said Governor Michael J. Dunleavy. “In fact, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport was recently named the best air cargo airport in North America and that tells the global business community that Alaska is open for business.”
The contributions of aviation are vital in a state where 82% of the communities are accessible only by air. From floatplane docks, to the smallest rural airport, to the largest international airport, each airport contributes to the quality of life enjoyed by Alaska’s businesses, residents, and visitors.
“Airports are essential for doing business in Alaska and supporting our state’s world renowned tourist destinations,” said John MacKinnon, Commissioner of the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities. “Our ongoing maintenance efforts and construction projects at the two internationals and the other 237 state-owned airports enhance aviation safety, increase airport capacity, and support economic development throughout the state.”
The information contained in the report will be used to demonstrate the significant role that commercial and general aviation airports play in supporting Alaska’s economy. Northern Economics prepared the report and the Federal Aviation Administration funded the project.
The report is available on the Alaska Aviation System Plan website at www.alaskaasp.com/Documents.aspx.
The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 239 airports, 10 ferries serving 35 communities, more than 5,600 miles of highway and 776 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to “Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure.”
