W hile vacationers can hope to traverse Alaska with little more than an adventurous spirit and creative improvisation, tackling logistics in the Last Frontier requires both resourcefulness and meticulous consideration. For those charged with overcoming the state’s daunting logistical challenges in order to transport everything from small packages to heavy machinery across what is by far the largest U.S. state—larger than the next three (Texas, California, and Montana) combined—careful planning is a must for freight to make it to its destination. Logistics providers in Alaska mirror the spirit of the state’s residents: They create solutions to problems that would not even occur to many who live in the lower 48. That requires not only planning but imagination, resourcefulness, and innovation too. The state’s Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development, for example, is helping to make the state more navigable for logistics providers, businesses, residents, and vacationers alike by enhancing the exchange of information through technology. IMPROVING ACCESS “From a broadband perspective, logistics continue to improve,” says Thomas Lochner, director of the Alaska Broadband Of ce. The of ce was created in 2022 to oversee the state’s efforts to ensure high-quality internet capabilities for everyday use. The effort also provides vital assistance to those engaged in the art and science of moving goods. “Tracking of material is critical to any effective logistical effort,” says Lochner. “Having robust broadband allows instant tracking and cataloging of material. Greater broadband opportunity allows for radio frequency identi cation to passively monitor shipments as they traverse through the system.” While the state’s roads and highways are constantly improving, and assets such as Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport continue to grow, Alaska’s geography will always present obstacles on the ground. Hence, the tremendous value of communication through cyberspace. “Given that more than 70% of Alaska’s communities are only served with small aircraft or seasonal barges, having precise tracking through
access to greater broadband will facilitate better management and shipping analysis,” says Lochner. “This creates the opportunity to optimize shipments to the various villages.” While the logistical challenges of the state are well- known—remote location complicated by treacherous climate and terrain—businesses gravitate to the state for its strategic global trade advantages. Often referred to as the “gateway to the world,” Alaska connects North America with Asia, making it an essential hub in the world marketplace. In short, its location provides opportunities that are unmatched anywhere else. LONG-TERM COMMITMENT AND VISION Helping in no small measure to make the most of Alaska’s place in the world is the Ted Stevens Airport, which for more than a half-century has played an integral role in the growth of Anchorage, the most populous city in the state, and the state itself. The Anchorage metropolitan area contains nearly 40% of the state’s 740,000 population. In October 2024, the airport announced the arrival of ve new cargo carriers, reinforcing its status as a global air cargo hub. Gov. Mike Dunleavy called the addition of the new cargo carriers “a signi cant milestone in our strategic plan to continue expanding cargo operations.” They are part of a long-term vision. “As we invest in building state-of-the-art cargo infrastructure, from additional warehousing to improved ramp space, these new operators will bene t from our ongoing commitment to support the needs of modern air freight,” Dunleavy said. The new carriers include Awesome Cargo Airlines, Central Airlines of China, Belgian carrier ASL Air Cargo, and CMA CGM Air Cargo. Aerologic Air Cargo also has initiated monthly operations servicing routes from Guangzhou and Hong Kong, effectively connecting these major Asian cities with Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky International Airport. The Ted Stevens Airport, named for the late Alaska senator, logged a nearly 5% year-over-year increase in cargo activity between scal years 2023 and 2024, with an additional 2% growth projected for 2025. No wonder the airport labels itself “world-class” and “world-close.”
April 2025 • Inbound Logistics 63
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