Governor Mike Dunleavy’s proposed state operating budget for fiscal year 2023 would direct a $5 million federal grant to the Alaska Travel Industry Association (ATIA). The funding would be on top of a recently approved $10.5 million federal grant that Dunleavy designated to the tourism association in September.
Community visitor centers, roadside cabins, and robust trail systems are essential infrastructure needed to support the multi-billion dollar tourism sector in Alaska.
“As more people are vaccinated, we could see more Americans ready to travel—and travel safely—this summer,” writes a group of visitor bureau leaders. “But as you’ve no doubt seen, Alaska’s tourism businesses face a lot of challenges between now and recovery. As Alaskans working in tourism, we have our work cut out for us.”
This March, Alaska Airlines is scheduled to start welcoming guests on its first Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Currently, Alaska Airlines don’t have a MAX in its fleet, but expects delivery of the first plane in January, followed by several more throughout 2021.
“COVID has taught us that flexibility in travel is key. As we evolve our approach to travel to include more than 100 safety actions, it’s important to give our guests flexibility when they book by eliminating change fees,” said Andrew Harrison, executive vice president and chief commercial officer for Alaska Airlines.
Ravn Alaska is operating under new ownership and preparing to get back in the air with a new leadership team: CEO Rob McKinney, President Tom Hsieh, Chief Compliance Officer Dan Kitchens, and Chief Financial Officer Jim Day, all of whom have years of experience in the aviation industry.
Alaska’s Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) has established Safety Corridors in areas with a higher than average incidence of fatal and serious injury crashes.
The Alaska Travel Industry Association is asking locals to “Show Up for Alaska” by getting out and exploring with tourism businesses this summer.
Along with facilitating shipments for a variety of industries, Arctic On-Demand will also provide a COVID-19 regulation-compliant solution to passengers.
This year Great Alaskan Holidays, Alaska’s largest RV rental, sales, and service business, celebrates its 35th anniversary in Alaska’s travel, tourism, and leisure industry.