Pt2-KCII 1

Part Three: Team Alaska
NETWORKS
Networks
Networks
AT&T ALASCOM
from Seward to Anchorage
200 earth stations, ensuring that
and north into the interior,
all corners of the state—even
following the Alaska Railroad.
the smallest villages—had
Whereas once repairmen
reliable phone service. In fact,
traveled by dogsled to check on
Alascom committed to provid-
the lines, submarine cables
ing phone service to every
eventually replaced the talking
Alaskan village of 25 residents
wire. To reflect the changing
or more.
technology, Congress renamed
enhance Alaska’s communica-
Communications System (ACS)
tions technology, Alascom
in 1936. The U.S. Army quickly
launched Aurora II in 1991.
completed the new system after
The new satellite dramatically
World War II began, creating
increased Alascom’s reach and
Alaska’s first and only long dis-
improved the quality of long dis-
tance network. Later, in January
tance service. With a new fiber
of 1971, RCA Corporation pur-
optic telecommunications cable,
chased ACS and other strategic
Alaska was seamlessly linked to
Alaska telecommunications
the Lower 48 states and Japan.
Since AT&T purchased
Communications, Inc. In July of
Alascom in 1995, the company
1979, Pacific Power and Light
has not only launched Aurora
(later known as PacifiCorp)
III, but has expanded services
of Portland, Oregon, purchased
to business and residential
the company from RCA and
customers. AT&T Alascom’s
renamed the company Alascom.
commitment to deliver service
For over 100 years, AT&T
A PIONEERING HISTORY
Alascom has forged the way for
AT&T Alascom’s story is inex-
began as the Washington-Alaska
modern communications in
tricably tied to the history of
Military Cable and Telegraph
Alaska. Today, the pioneering
Alaska. The constant pursuit of
System (WAMCATS), a “talking
cally through the years, invest-
one of the most extensive
legacy continues. With over
bringing cutting-edge technol-
wire” strung overland across vast
ing millions of dollars to build a
networks in the world.
300 dedicated employees in
ogy to Alaska has given AT&T
wilderness and linked to a sub-
statewide telecommunications
Anchorage, Fairbanks, and
Alascom a critical role in
marine cable connecting Seattle
network. Alascom’s commitment
A COMMUNITY SPIRIT
Juneau, and one of the largest,
shaping the social and economic
with Juneau, Sitka, and Valdez.
to the state was never more
Bringing people closer
most sophisticated networks in
landscape of the state. As a
Congress passed the act that
evident than on October 27,
together—it is the greatest
the world, AT&T Alascom
leader in the quest to build
created WAMCATS in 1900 to
1982, when Alascom ventured
benefit of AT&T Alascom’s
continues to meet and exceed
Alaska’s infrastructure over the
open communication channels
into outer space, launching its
technology and community
the demand for state-of-the-art
past century, Alaskans have
between Alaska’s isolated
own telecommunications
service. AT&T Alascom is a
telecommunications in the last
come to regard AT&T Alascom
military outposts and the rest of
satellite, Aurora I, from Cape
company of Alaskans deeply
frontier. AT&T Alascom is
as a part of their heritage and
the country, setting the stage
Canaveral, Florida. A pioneer of
committed to enriching the
passionate about its business,
a part of their lives.
for the eventual foundation of
its time, Aurora I was the only
quality of life for Alaska’s
civilian telecommunications.
satellite devoted to the exclusive
communities. AT&T Alascom
the state and service to Alaskans.
What is now AT&T Alascom
In a continuing effort to
WAMCATS the Alaska
sites and became RCA Alaska
Through the use of more than 200
satellite dishes, AT&T Alascom provides
telecommunication services to every
Alaskan community with 25 residents
or more.
Alascom also constructed over
Alascom expanded dramati-
Courtesy of the National Archives
Overland lines soon stretched
Courtesy of AT&T Alascom
Courtesy of AT&T Alascom
U.S. Army Signal Corps telephone line
inspectors on the Richardson Trail, now
the Richardson Highway, in 1926.
to all Alaskans has resulted in
Aurora I satellite.
use of a single state: Alaska.
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Networks
Networks
Sponsored by AT&T Alascom, musher
Tyrell Seavey placed 16th in the 2005
Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
Much of the contributions
System (TAPS), which currently
community events and organiza-
from AT&T Alascom to Alaska’s
pipes one million barrels per day
tions, spanning a wide array
communities come from its
from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez.
of interests, including: Health &
employees directly. For example,
Solution—The network,
Family (March of Dimes,
the men and women of AT&T
which was originally built and
Challenge Alaska, American
Alascom show they care for the
operated by Alascom, has main-
Diabetes Association, Children’s
students of Government Hill
tained a nearly spotless record
Miracle Network); Cultural/Arts
Elementary School by volunteer-
& Recreation (Alaska Junior
ing at the Annual Health Fair &
Theatre, Perseverance Theater);
World Cultural Fair, judging
Schools/Education (Government
spelling bees, mentoring
Hill School-Business
students in the Big Brothers Big
Partnership, Junior
Sisters program, distributing
Achievement); Military (U.S.
reflective Halloween Trick-or-
Armed Services, YMCA, Alaska
Courtesy of the U.S. Army
has proudly supported many
Courtesy of AT&T Alascom
WAMCATS hauling submarine cable
into the port of Valdez, Alaska in 1904.
of reliability for 27 years. AT&T
Alascom is now developing
an upgraded digital network to
provide communications
for critical oil flow monitoring
A RECORD OF INNOVATION
which can control circuits,
company’s philanthropic efforts,
At AT&T Alascom, the staff
as well as support Alyeska’s data,
Treat bags for safety, and sharing
the company actively partici-
is dedicated to being the best
voice and radio communications
Air Show); Community &
the fun of holiday caroling.
pates in the AT&T CARES
at bringing people together,
needs. The AT&T Alascom
Social Services (AT&T CARES,
These rewarding volunteer
program. AT&T CARES allows
giving them easy access to each
solution provides communica-
Fairbanks Intertribal Powwow,
efforts are a part of the
every AT&T employee to devote
other, and the information and
tions services at all points
United Way); Environment
Anchorage School-Business
one paid workday per year to
services they want and need—
throughout the pipeline’s
(Kenai River Classic, Clean-up
Partnership Program. AT&T
volunteer at a nonprofit organi-
anytime, anywhere, and for any
operations, across three major
Days); and Civic/Political
Alascom is proud to participate
zation. AT&T Alascom chooses
type of customer. Whether a
mountain ranges in Alaska, and
(Gavel to Gavel, Mayor’s
in this program and to
five to seven large-scale projects
consumer, small business, or
includes new digital microwave
Charity Ball, Alaska Peace
partner with Government Hill
each year and encourages teams
large corporation, AT&T
services that allow for additional
Officers Association).
Elementary School.
of 15 to 30 employees to take
Alascom provides unsurpassed
communications capabilities.
the day off to volunteer at a
service to all types of Alaskans
Benefits—The AT&T
particular agency. As a result,
in a wide array of industries,
Alascom solution keeps the Trans
AT&T Alascom Employees have
including government, aero-
Alaska Pipeline System operating
helped in reading programs,
space, oil and gas development,
smoothly and has allowed for
shelters, wilderness cleanup,
tourism, financial services,
more than 14 billion barrels of
Special Olympics, school and
health care, and education.
oil to flow through the line since
Courtesy of AT&T Alascom
In conjunction with the
home repairs.
The AT&T CARES commit-
When it comes to problemsolving skills and the ability to
ment is valued at approximately
provide innovative solutions,
Client—University of Alaska
$20 million nationally. To date
AT&T Alascom’s record speaks
Objective—To connect
AT&T Alascom associates
for itself:
have donated over 7,000 hours
to communities throughout the
state of Alaska.
the University’s rural locations,
delivering high-speed reliability
Client—Alyeska Pipeline
Service Company
Objective—To upgrade and
AT&T CARES Volunteers, Food Bank
of Alaska.
production began in 1977.
and consistent performance—
critical to a modern academic
environment.
operate the microwave communications network along the
800-mile Trans Alaska Pipeline
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Networks
AT&T Alascom Eagle River Earth
Station links rural Alaska to the rest of
the world.
Morris Hardy, AT&T Alascom switch
technician, Government Hill location,
Anchorage.
whether their network is
connected—high-speed wireless
and wireless technologies—
carrying voice, data or streaming
Internet service for rural Alaskan
providing a service that will
video. AT&T Alascom’s
communities. Wireless broad-
truly converge all of Alaska’s
integrated business and residen-
band through AT&T Alascom
communication needs.
tial solutions include long
is one of the fastest, most
distance, local, data, video, and
dependable, and affordable
service to all the advantages of
Internet services.
high-speed Internet options
AT&T’s powerful global
available, and it will revolution-
network, AT&T Alascom has
Alascom success is but a prelude
ize the way remote Alaskan
consistently brought the best of
to the next advance. Its most
villages communicate. Moreover,
telecommunications to Alaska.
recent technologies include
AT&T Alascom’s rural
WiMAX and rural broadband,
broadband technology is sym-
we are proud to have been an
while in the future AT&T
metrical—meaning customers
integral part of Alaska’s rich
Alascom will be offering Voice
can upload data, photos,
history and we will continue to
over Internet Protocol.
and files just as quickly as they
build a bright future for the
can download them.
people of the last frontier.
Courtesy of AT&T Alascom
Solution—AT&T Alascom
A FUTURE OF
edge technology, WiMAX is a
And finally, AT&T Alascom
wireless digital communications
is looking forward to offering
system that is intended for
Voice over Internet Protocol
wireless “metropolitan area
(VoIP) throughout the state.
networks.” WiMAX can provide
Only AT&T Alascom will be
Today, AT&T Alascom
broadband wireless access up
able to offer the nation’s
developed a high-speed, secure
NEW TECHNOLOGY
operates more than 200 sites
to 30 miles for fixed stations,
top-ranking VoIP technology
wide-area network linking
AT&T Alascom is a pioneer,
statewide—microwave and
and 3 to 10 miles for mobile
to Alaskan businesses and
all of the University’s remote
committed to the future of
satellite communications
stations. In contrast, the WiFi
consumers. AT&T Alascom’s
and rural locations. The net-
Alaska, its people, and commu-
stations providing virtually every
wireless local area network
end-to-end service will allow
work serves both student and
nities. That is why, in the
community in Alaska domestic
standard is limited in most cases
voice and data to be carried on a
administrative services, allowing
twenty-first century as before, we
and international long distance
to only 100 to 300 feet.
single, unified network
for quick and efficient transfer
are Alaskans’ first choice for long
connections. In fact, the
WiMAX is a second-generation
anywhere around the world.
of large amounts of data
distance service. In the develop-
network now handles more than
protocol that allows for more
Whether Alaskans need unlim-
among campuses and real-time
ment of AT&T Alascom’s
218 million calls per year.
efficient bandwidth use, inter-
ited long-distance service or
videoconferences.
networks, dedicated workers
ference avoidance, and allows
high-quality, real-time videocon-
Still, the vision does not end
with can-do spirit surmounted
there. AT&T Alascom is steadily
higher data rates over longer
ferencing capabilities, AT&T
Alascom solution is helping
the formidable challenges of
focused on new technologies
distances, thereby making it
Alascom will deliver cost-
the University of Alaska meet its
the Alaskan frontier and now
that will enhance Alaska’s
ideal—not only for Alaska’s
effective solutions designed
mission of providing access to
the frontier of outer space.
communications capabilities
vibrant metropolitan areas, but
specifically for consumers,
higher education to every citizen
Generations of problem solvers
well into the future—for secure,
for rural areas as well.
educational and health care
of Alaska.
have worked together and will
seamless connections within the
continue to work to understand
state and around the world—
Benefits—The AT&T
Additionally, AT&T Alascom
AT&T Alascom service tower,
Government Hill location, Anchorage.
institutions, or companies
has introduced a technology
operating in Alaska’s unique
and protect the environment,
essential to Alaska—rural broad-
geographical environment.
applying the latest technology to
band. It is the next step in the
Moreover, AT&T Alascom
expand and enhance Alaska’s
company’s continuing commit-
Voice over IP will be designed
communications networks.
ment to keeping rural Alaska
to accommodate both wired
166
Courtesy of AT&T Alascom
Truly the latest in cutting-
Here at AT&T Alascom,
Courtesy of AT&T Alascom
However, each AT&T
From friendly, personalized
167
Networks
Networks
CARLILE
Courtesy of Carlile
With an integrated, multi-modal
service, Carlile can expedite shipments
to the most remote sites, or just down
the street.
Today, with more than
1,500 trailers and 270 trucks, a
comprehensive equipment fleet,
state-of-the-art tracking
technologies, a network of transportation partners, and finely
honed logistical services of less
than truck load and full load,
Carlile is able to provide
shipments targeted for just-intime delivery.
■
75-foot public scale
■
Bulk commodities
■
Container freight station
Courtesy of Carlile
LOGISTICAL SERVICES
■
Courtesy of Carlile
(US customs bonded facility)
Consolidation and
distribution
Carlile’s deep understanding of transport
in Alaska’s extreme conditions has been
an opportunity to create solutions that
optimize container loads, delivery times,
and all freight handling.
■
Covered flatbed loading area
■
Hazardous materials
■
Heavy haul/lowboy services
■
Industrial shrink-wrap
■
Project lay-down
■
Rail load/off-load
■
Third-party logistics
■
Warehousing
CARLILE KEEPS FREIGHT
enabled them to create solutions
MOVING IN AND OUT
that optimize container loads,
Carlile opened a new
delivery times, and all freight
terminal in January 2006 in
From consumer goods and
handling. Carlile serves key
Tacoma, Washington, featuring
construction materials to heavy
industries such as oil and gas,
cutting-edge technology and
equipment, Carlile is a fully
mining, manufacturing, retail,
65,000-square-feet of cross-dock
integrated transportation and
wholesale, construction, and
space. “The new facility
logistics company that moves
the military.
positions Carlile to stay ahead
OF
ALASKA
freight between Alaska and the
of growing demand,” said Harry
rest of North America.
McDonald, Carlile president.
Each Carlile driver works to ensure
that the customer’s shipment reaches its
destination safely and on time.
Carlile’s history of working in
Alaska’s extreme conditions,
under demanding schedules, has
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“It’s part of our ongoing com-
The McDonalds landed
mitment to building the infra-
their first major contract in
the company to expand its
structure that will keep Alaska
1980, hauling urea from
services. Carlile became an
shipments moving seamlessly.”
Agrium’s Nikiski plant. By then,
interstate hauler in 1994 when
The new terminal replaced the
their fleet included three trucks.
it purchased K & W Trucking
previous Carlile terminal in
They renamed their company
and opened its Washington
Federal Way, Washington.
Carlile—John’s middle name—
office in Federal Way. It
and opened their first office
expanded into heavy-haul-and-
in Anchorage.
winch trucks in 2001 when it
Providing the best equipment
and transportation network has
been at the core of Carlile’s
Several acquisitions enabled
The oil and gas industry
acquired Asay Trucking.
success over the past 30 years.
became an increasingly impor-
Carlile purchased Markair’s
Harry and John McDonald,
tant customer. In 1987, Carlile
North Slope facility in 1991 and
brothers, started Harry
hauled its first shipment to
developed a bulk-storage yard
McDonald Trucking, their first
Prudhoe Bay and secured a
to help service its new account
trucking company, in 1975.
contract with ARCO, now
with Alyeska Pipeline Service
ConocoPhillips. Its first North
Co. It added a logistics division
move Alaska forward,” said
Slope terminal opened in 1988.
in 1996 to better service TRW,
Harry McDonald. “It’s been an
Carlile added a hazardous-waste
Alyeska, and Unocal.
amazing ride, and a great honor
division in 1990 and purchased
to have played a supporting role
a new Fairbanks facility the
grew its original Ship Creek
in Alaska’s success.”
following year.
facility in 1998 and moved to a
“We saw an opportunity to
Courtesy of Carlile
Networks
Courtesy of Carlile
Networks
In Anchorage, Carlile outCarlile’s customer-service philosophy
is based on a desire to provide
each customer with the best
transportation service.
much larger headquarters and
Courtesy of Carlile
The Carlile crew is the soul of the
operation. Whether by meeting early
delivery requirements, designing special
equipment to transport unique freight,
or using on-board computers to improve
safety as well as fuel and maintenance
cost, the people of Carlile save businesses
time and money.
terminal on First Avenue.
Additional offices and terminals
support interstate logistics in
Seward, along with Houston,
Texas; and Edmonton, Alberta.
In April 2006, Carlile
opened for business in
Minnesota with expanded
freight services and customer
shipping to and from Alaska.
The new routes allow Carlile to
service the Midwest and East
Equipment is the heart of Carlile’s
business. Providing the best equipment
and transporation network has been at
the core of Carlile’s success over the past
30 years.
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Coast through the Minnesota or
Tacoma gateway, with expedited
highway or water service.
171
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HORIZON LINES
It is the 50th anniversary of the
his trucking fleet as an integral
advent of the global container
part of an extended transporta-
age. It is hard to believe that just
tion network. Instead of
50 years ago, shipping technol-
In less than 15 years, McLean
Sea-Land, Horizon Lines’
built the largest cargo-shipping
predecessor, began service in
business in the world. By the
Alaska just after the Good
end of the century, container
Friday earthquake in 1964.
truckers traversing the eastern
ships were transporting 90 per-
In fact, the company accelerated
ogy changed from moving
coastline, a few strategic truck-
cent of the world’s trade cargo.
the start of its direct container
pallets of products to shipping
ing hubs in the South and
full container loads.
North would function as end
heritage directly back to Sealand
bring emergency supplies to
points, delivering and receiving
Industries as its original U.S.
heavily damaged communities
McLean owned the fifth-largest
goods at key port cities. The
domestic service. Changes in
in Southcentral Alaska in May
trucking company in America.
ship would be responsible for
ownership led the company to
that year. The service had been
He was appalled at the ineffi-
the majority of the travel.
change its name from Sea-Land
scheduled to start in September.
In the early 1950s, Malcolm
Horizon Lines traces its
Service to CSX Lines and
shipping service to Anchorage to
ciencies of moving freight from
McLean was so convinced
trucks to ships and frustrated by
that his idea would be successful
ultimately to it current brand,
development came later that
restrictive trucking regulations.
that he purchased the Pan-
Horizon Lines.
year when Sea-Land’s S.S.
He strongly believed that he
Atlantic Steamship Company
could devise a method of mov-
and proceeded with plans for the
ing freight that would virtually
construction of “trailerships”.
trucking company to comply
eliminate repeated handling of
Seven railroads immediately
the cargo and the associated
cargo damage and pilferage.
Horizon Lines traces its heritage back to
Sea-Land Service, Inc., the company
that revolutionized global transportation
by inventing the containership and
containerization in 1956.
However, the most dramatic
Anchorage navigated thick ice
SERVICE TO ALASKA
in Cook Inlet to show that an
Today, Horizon Lines operates
ice-strengthened vessel could
with the Act. He then renamed
three large, fast diesel-powered
reach the Port of Anchorage
accused McLean of violating the
his new shipping company
vessels on a twice-weekly sailing
without the assistance of tugs or
Interstate Commerce Act.
Sealand Industries.
schedule to Alaska—the MV
an icebreaker. The ship cut its
Horizon Anchorage, MV Horizon
way through ice that was two to
converted oil tanker, the Ideal X,
Kodiak and MV Horizon
four feet thick, according to
carried 58 new box trailers from
Tacoma. All three vessels can
a history of the company by
Port Newark, New Jersey to
travel at 20 knots, carrying 650
Darren Fullo.
Houston, Texas. The container
40- and 45-foot containers each.
Undaunted, McLean sold his
Courtesy of Horizon Lines
On April 27, 1956, McLean’s
age was born.
The ships, built in 1987,
Year-round container service
was to have an important
are twice as fast and carry twice
impact on the state’s economy.
McLean’s gamble paid off.
as many containers as the
The rapid growth of retail and
Cargo-handling labor costs
older, steam-powered vessels
wholesale stores such as Safeway,
dropped dramatically, as did
they replaced.
Costco, Sam’s Club, Wal-Mart,
Over the ensuing years,
Courtesy of Horizon Lines
McLean initially envisioned
freight loss and damage claims.
Lowe’s, and others would not
Ports clearly saw “intermodal-
have been possible without
ism” as the wave of the future
efficient container shipping
and began redesigning their
by Horizon.
Courtesy of Horizon Lines
Courtesy of Horizon Lines
THE CONTAINER AGE BEGINS
A Horizon Lines vessel sails in the
Cook Inlet. It takes just over three days
to make the transit to Tacoma,
Washington.
facilities to handle containers.
Plying the waters of Cook Inlet, this
Horizon Lines vessel makes its way to
the Port of Anchorage.
The Horizon Kodiak docked at the
Port of Anchorage. Anchorage’s port
serves all of the Alaska Railbelt and
points beyond.
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SERVING SEAFOOD
Much has changed since those
Horizon, and Sea-Land before
voyages by the S.S. New Orleans
it, is also the major domestic
and S.S. Anchorage in 1964.
ocean carrier serving Alaska’s
Today, much of the innovation
Courtesy of Horizon Lines
A CULTURE OF INNOVATION
AND
POWER
Courtesy of Municipal Light & Power, Photo by Chris Arend Photography
ANCHORAGE MUNICIPAL LIGHT
Horizon Lines’ ships bring automobiles,
groceries, building materials, beverages,
household goods, and more to Alaska
every week.
Anchorage Municipal Light and
owns a one-third working
Power (ML&P) provides electric
interest in the Beluga River Gas
service to approximately 30,000
Field. Its Beluga interest ensures
residential and commercial
ML&P and its customers a
seafood industry in southwest
customers in a 20-square-mile
secure and reliable source of
is in information systems. A
Alaska. The company began
area of Anchorage—Alaska’s
energy for all but peaking needs
subsidiary, Horizon Services
service to Kodiak in 1971, and
largest city and the commercial
until about 2018.
Group, based in Dallas, devel-
to Unalaska/Dutch Harbor in
nerve center of the state.
oped one of the industry’s most
1992, both communities typi-
ML&P also provides bulk power
the future, ML&P has acceler-
widely used comprehensive
cally at the top or among the
to nearby military bases,
ated efforts to ensure generating
Internet-based cargo booking,
top U.S. seafood ports. Today,
Elmendorf Air Force Base and
capacity keeps pace with
tracking, and billing services.
Horizon offers twice-weekly
Fort Richardson.
both anticipated growth and
The group keeps the company
service to Kodiak and weekly
domestic U.S. markets. Without
on the leading edge of informa-
service to Dutch Harbor. There
it, the industry would have
service was viable but encoun-
and affordable power is the
equipment; to promote explo-
tion technology.
is also seasonal feeder service by
only foreign carriers that serve
tered financial difficulties after a
mission of ML&P; it is also a
ration and development of
barge to communities along
export markets.
series of military contracts.
cornerstone of a healthy
new sources of natural gas; and
and duration. In 2005,
Over several years, its ownership
community and an absolute
to foster cooperative partner-
ML&P scored .99994 and
A LONG HISTORY
passed among several well-
necessity for continued
ships among other utilities in
0.99991, respectively, on conti-
Although Horizon, as Sea-Land,
known Alaska businessmen,
economic growth in the future.
Alaska’s Railbelt.
nuity by customer hours and
Customers are rapidly adapting to the new systems. Today,
the Alaska Peninsula, Bristol Bay
60 percent of the freight carried
and the Pribilof Islands.
to Alaska by Horizon is booked
The service is important
The company showed that its
Providing secure, reliable,
To meet the challenges of
the need to retire aging
because it gives Alaska fishermen
has a 42-year history in Alaska,
including Lloyd Burgess of
15 percent two years ago.
and processors efficient access to
its roots really go back to 1948
Fairbanks and Milton Odom
integrated utility. In addition to
highly reliable electric service
hours. Statistically, ML&P
when Fairbanks businessman
of Anchorage.
generating, transmitting, and
as reflected in its scores on
customers experienced one-half
distributing power, ML&P
indices of outage frequency
interruption in 2005, and
Al Ghezzi formed the Alaska
Malcolm McLean, Sea-Land’s
ML&P is a vertically
ML&P consistently provides
continuity by megawatt (MW)
Freight Lines Co., to compete
founder, purchased the assets
the average interruption
with the Alaska Steamship Co.,
of Alaska Freight Lines from
duration for affected customers
with a tug and barge service.
Odom in 1963. After a lengthy
Ghezzi operated an early version
negotiation, the deal was signed
of a container service, shipping
in New York by both parties
goods north in containers
on the back of an envelope. So
loaded on barges.
began Horizon Lines’ lengthy
Courtesy of Municipal Light & Power, Photo by Chris Arend Photography
Courtesy of Horizon Lines
via the Web, compared with
history and tradition in Alaska.
Horizon Lines thanks
The Alaska Journal of Commerce
for portions of this story.
The George M. Sullivan Plant generates
most of the power that ML&P
provides to its approximately 30,000
customers. That plant is named for the
long time mayor who presided over
Anchorage during the 1970s.
A Horizon Lines vessel working at the
Port of Dutch Harbor, one of America’s
busiest seafood ports.
174
was 32 minutes.
In cooperation with other
Railbelt utilities, ML&P is
investigating the feasibility of a
50- to 100-MW wind farm on
Fire Island, three miles west of
Anchorage. With the cost of
natural gas on the rise, the wind
project may be cost-competitive.
In addition to its obvious
environmental appeal, wind
power would diversify ML&P’s
generation mix and help stretch
existing supplies of natural gas.
175
Detailed inspections of a gas-fired
turbine are conducted as part of
planned maintenance at ML&P’s
George M. Sullivan Plant 2. Preventive
maintenance is critical to ensuring
reliable power.
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ALASKA RAILROAD
THE CORPORATION
Whittier, and from Anchorage
ALASKA RAILROAD FACTS
More than 90 years ago
Unlike most state-owned entities
to Fairbanks. During the winter,
■
President Woodrow Wilson
the Alaska Railroad is incorpo-
trains run between Anchorage
build the Alaska Railroad was
charged the Alaskan Engineering
rated and run like a business. A
and Fairbanks on weekends.
used in construction of the
Commission to map a railroad
seven-member board of directors
route from a southern ice-free
governs the Railroad’s policy and
FREIGHT
harbor to the interior of Alaska.
direction. The Alaska Railroad
The Alaska Railroad provides a
Alaska Railroad is 3 percent,
His vision was to open up
receives no operating funds from
seamless freight operation
between Spencer and
Alaska’s interior to commerce.
the state nor are its employees
between shipping points in the
Grandview on the way
In eight years, 5,000 hardscrab-
considered to be state
Lower 48 to many destinations
to Seward.
ble men wielding shovels, saws,
employees. Rather, it generates
in Alaska. The Railroad moves
and spike mauls built 500 miles
revenues—through freight,
major commodities including
North America’s only railroads
of track to provide Alaska with a
passenger, and real estate
petroleum products, chemicals,
that provides both passenger
major transportation corridor
services—to cover personnel,
gravel, coal, dry goods, and haz-
and freight service and is one
between Seward and Fairbanks.
employee benefits, operations,
ardous materials. Crucial to the
of the last railroads with
and maintenance expenses.
operation is Alaska Rail Marine,
whistle stop service.
In 1985, the State of Alaska
bought the Railroad from
Panama Canal.
a combination rail-water-rail-
■
■
■
The Alaska Railroad is one of
The bridge over Hurricane
BUSINESS PASSENGER SERVICES
barge service running between
Gulch, the most dramatic on
$22 million.
The Alaska Railroad has
the Port of Seattle and Whittier.
the line, was built in 1921,
Courtesy of Alaska Railroad Corporation
Above: An Alaska Railroad passenger
train charges along Turnagain Arm on
Cook Inlet.
The steepest grade of the
the federal government for
transported passengers through
Top: An Alaska Railroad train travels
near Portage Lake and Portage Glacier.
Some equipment used to
using more than 100,000
Alaska’s most spectacular scenery
REAL ESTATE
rivets. It extends 915 feet
for nearly 80 years, making it
The Alaska Railroad owns more
across the canyon and soars
one of Alaska’s oldest tour com-
than 36,000 acres of land
296 feet over Hurricane Creek.
panies. In 2005, the Railroad
between Seward and Fairbanks,
introduced GoldStar Service
about half of which are available
mainline is Fairbanks. Mile
with two new custom double-
for lease. Most of these lands are
one of the Railroad is in
deck railcars. GoldStar Service
adjacent to rail lines, ports, and
Seward, although technically,
provides luxury accommoda-
communities, making them
about the first mile and a
tions, dining and service,
prime properties for manufactur-
half were wiped out by the
and a private outdoor viewing
ing, construction, and retail.
1964 earthquake.
platform exclusively for
In some cases, “public entity”
GoldStar guests while traveling
leases provide communities with
on the Denali Star Train
the resources they need to
through Alaska.
improve the quality of life for
The primary passenger
Courtesy of Alaska Railroad Corporation
BEGINNINGS
■
The northern end of the
Courtesy of Alaska Railroad Corporation
Courtesy of Alaska Railroad Corporation
Passengers on Alaska Railroad trains
are treated to views of both soaring
mountains and the pristine waters of
Turnagain Arm.
residents. The Alaska Railroad
season runs from mid-May to
Corporation appreciates the
mid-September, when trains run
needs of its business and
daily between Anchorage
community partners, and seeks
and Seward, Anchorage and
to maintain access, transportation links, and delivery systems
Alaska Railroad introduced GoldStar
Service in 2005. Here, a GoldStar
Service double-deck railcar provides a
beautiful, unobstructed view of
Turnagain Arm.
that help its partners to succeed
and grow.
176
177
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DAT/EM SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL
coastlines, and rich natural
staff of DAT/EM Systems
resources mean that Alaskans
travels, people there are always
have a great need for mapping
intensely curious to learn more
products to keep track of a vast
about Alaska and Alaskans.
amount of lands information.
Many conversations center not
It makes sense, then, that one of
only around business, but
the world’s premier mapping
around Alaska history, politics,
software companies was founded
life, and Alaska’s position as
in Alaska.
of one of the most beautiful and
Courtesy of AERO-METRIC, Inc.
With AERO-METRIC, Inc.
Mount McKinley, with an elevation
of 20,320 feet (6,194 meters), is the
highest peak in North American.
The gem of Denali National Park and
Preserve, it is a huge snowy mass,
flanked by five giant glaciers and countless icefalls. It dominates the horizon
from as far south as Cook Inlet, 200
miles away, and as far north as
Fairbanks, 150 miles away. Its steep
unbroken south slope rises 17,000 feet
in 12 miles. Five major ridges extend
from the summit, and many spurs
and buttresses extend from these.
Wherever in the world the
vibrant regions in the entire
as its parent company, DAT/EM
world. In keeping with the
Systems International was
beautiful Alaska mystique, each
created in 1987 in response to
DAT/EM Systems product is
the mapping industry’s rapidly
branded with its own Alaska
growing need to use personal
Native totem design and an
computers to produce digital
associated Alaskan nature photo-
maps from aerial photography.
graph. Posters depicting
When it launched its first
these scenes and art are in high
digital-map production product,
demand from clients and
both domestic and international
distributors around the world
interest in the software was
and have proven to be a valuable
operation, DAT/EM Systems
immediate.
tool in sales negotiations.
International has proven that an
Through hard work,
Because the world’s demand
Courtesy of DAT/EM Systems International, Design by Sunny Wilster
Alaska’s extensive lands,
Now in its twentieth year of
Alaska-based high-tech company
teamwork, and with an eye to
for geospatial information
can attract and retain skilled
the future, DAT/EM Systems
continues to accelerate,
employees, compete in the
has continued to expand into
DAT/EM Systems believes there
global marketplace and benefit
the international marketplace.
is considerable potential for
the economy of the state.
DAT/EM Systems has become
growth in the international
one of the top leaders in
market for its products and
the world of digital-mapping
services. As global communica-
technology and distributes its
tions continue to improve along
products throughout the world.
with advancements in the
Internet, companies based in
DAT/EM Systems is a leader in
digital mapping technology with global
product distribution.
places like Alaska are able
Herbert Island is located 948 miles
(1,525 km) from Anchorage, Alaska.
Herbert is a classic stratovolcano with a
1.3-mile (2.1 km) wide caldera.
to reach out and develop significant business relationships
throughout the world.
178
Pederson, and Holgate Glaciers. Located
outside Seward, Aialik Bay is a favorite
backcountry sea kayak adventure.
Courtesy of AERO-METRIC, Inc.
Courtesy of AERO-METRIC, Inc.
Aialik Bay, in the Kenai Fjords
National Park, is a deeply forged inlet
formed by the retreat the of Aialik,
179
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Moving the 27-megawatt plant from
Fairbanks to Delta Junction will
increase reliability in the Delta area,
which is growing from 2 percent to 20
percent of system load in 2006.
GOLDEN VALLEY ELECTRIC
Courtesy of Golden Valley Electric Association
Courtesy of Golden Valley Electric Association
Project, the Alaska Intertie and
energy is another source of
Ground Missile Defense system,
the Healy Clean Coal Project,
Association (GVEA) took shape
power. In 2005, GVEA intro-
electrification of Alyeska’s
currently owned by the state
in 1946 when a small group
duced the SNAP program.
pumps, the addition of Pogo
agency, the Alaska Industrial
of people became interested in
SNAP (Sustainable Natural
Gold Mine, and other growth,
Development and Export
bringing electric service to rural
Alternative Power) helps connect
Delta is growing from 2 to 20
Authority (AIDEA).
areas and furthering the agricul-
members interested in purchas-
percent of GVEA’s load.
tural industry in Interior Alaska.
ing green power with members
Since then, GVEA has grown
interested in producing it.
As new businesses set root in
Interior Alaska and established
JAA membership is open to
all other Railbelt electric co-ops
and municipalities.
businesses grow, GVEA will
Interior residents at 41,160
GROWTH
continue to expand to meet
RELIABILITY
service locations.
In 2005, GVEA connected
these needs.
While GVEA is proud of the
As a cooperative, Golden
1,097 new services. To meet
Valley is owned by the members
increasing demand, GVEA is
COOPERATION AMONGST
achieves, Golden Valley is always
it serves. Golden Valley Electric
working on several projects:
COOPERATIVES
looking for ways to meet the
Association members continu-
■
In 2005, three Alaskan electric
future needs of its members and
ally demonstrate their support
is currently under construction.
utilities, GVEA, Chugach
improve the service it provides.
for the co-op by reelecting their
The North Pole Power Plant
Electric Association, and
board representatives; the
Expansion project will bring
Municipal Light & Power,
constructed the Battery Energy
cooperatives nationwide, Golden
average board member has 16
60 megawatts of additional
formed the Alaska Railbelt
Storage System, or BESS. The
Valley enjoys an enviable
years of experience.
power to meet increasing
Energy Authority, a Joint
BESS provides 27 megawatts
position of trust and satisfaction
demands. This state-of-the-art
Action Agency.
(MW) of power for 15 minutes,
among its members when
long enough to start up another
compared to investor-owned
legal entity independent of its
power source in the case of a
utilities. To continue promoting
generation failure.
the cooperative advantage
In North Pole, new generation
99.97 percent reliability it
To increase reliability, GVEA
As one of over 900 electric
plant will be energy-efficient
In 2005, GVEA’s Board of
and clean-burning.
Directors adopted a Green
■
GVEA’s service regions con-
members. Ratepayers from one
Power Pledge. By 2007, ten
tinue to expand. New members
utility will not subsidize costs to
percent of GVEA’s power will
near Healy began receiving
the others. However, it allows
34 times to prevent outages
Touchstone Energy
come from renewable sources,
power for the first time in 2005.
the member utilities to combine
to over 226,000 members.
Cooperatives, an alliance of
and by 2014, this increases
Additional line extensions
expertise and resources.
In fact, the BESS entered the
member-owned co-ops across
to 20 percent.
extend power along the Steese
This provides the benefits of
Guiness Book of World Records
the country. Touchstone Energy
and Parks Highways.
providing lower cost power,
as the most powerful battery
formed in 1998 to use new
more favorable financing,
when on December 20, 2003
technology to co-ops’ advantage
A power plant previously
Not a merger, the JAA is a
COOPERATIVE ADVANTAGE
RENEWABLE ENERGY
GVEA currently receives
Above: A regenerator overhaul at
GVEA’S North Pole Power Plant
improved the plant’s efficiency, which
equates to a savings of $1 million
annually in fuel costs.
With the expansion of the
Golden Valley Electric
to serve approximately 90,000
Top: The North Pole Power Plant
Expansion project will be energy
efficient and clean burning.
■
In 2005, the BESS responded
to its members, GVEA joined
power from the Bradley
■
Lake Hydroelectric project.
located in Fairbanks moved to
and the potential for future
it discharged 46 MW for
and to communicate clearly the
Additionally, several locations in
Delta Junction to provide
joint dispatch of power.
five minutes.
strengths of cooperatives. In
the Interior, including Healy
backup generation for the area.
and Murphy Dome, are being
The Jarvis Creek substation
Alaska legislature to address
of people joined together in the
examined for potential wind
was expanded to serve this
Alaska’s long-term energy needs
1940s to form GVEA, so
generation. A joint project
new plant.
recommended the state exit the
will Golden Valley benefit
among Railbelt utilities is study-
power business. This means that
by joining Touchstone Energy
ing wind generation possibilities
the JAA member utilities could
Cooperatives and sharing
of 50 to 100 megawatts on
accept the transfer of state-
experiences and resources.
Fire Island, south of Anchorage.
owned power projects such as
the same manner that a group
A task force formed by the
the Bradley Lake Hydroelectric
180
Courtesy of Golden Valley Electric Association
Member-produced renewable
Courtesy of Golden Valley Electric Association
COOPERATIVE SPIRIT
181
GVEA’s Battery Energy Storage System
(BESS) is the most powerful battery in
the world. It increases system reliability
by providing 27 megawatts of power
for 15 minutes.
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PORT GRAHAM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Calving glacier in the Kenai Fjords
National Park.
THE HERITAGE
PGDC CAPABILITIES
Port Graham Development
The people of Port Graham
Design/Build—PGDC offers
Corporation (PGDC) is an
were the ancestral inhabitants of
design/build and architect/
Alaska Native Corporation
the Kenai Fjords. Prior to the
engineering services including
(ANC) small business whose
arrival of the Russians during
engineering and/or construction
principles and philosophies are
the late 1700s, thousands lived
services for a variety of buildings
guided by the Alutiiq heritage,
and prospered along this rocky
and other critical infrastructure.
culture, and values. PGDC
coast. A sophisticated culture of
is committed to delivering the
maritime hunters and gatherers
highest possible value, on
thrived in Nuka Bay, Yalik Bay,
schedule, and on budget to its
and Aialik Bay.
Alutiiq inhabitants to hunt sea
engineering, construction,
otter for the burgeoning fur
and professional-services firm,
trade. Eventually, all the people
PGDC is characterized by a
were relocated to Alexandrovsk
robust accounting system,
(now Nanwalek) or Paluwik
rigid schedule-management
(now Port Graham) by the
standards, and strict real-time
Russian missionaries during the
project accountability.
late 1800s. The people of Port
PGDC was originally formed
buildings which are permanent
structures, but can be delivered
Courtesy of Port Graham Development Corporation
program/project-management,
modular or plant-constructed,
in multiple units and installed
on-site, in many cases cutting
up to a full year off the
schedule of traditional site-
Graham still revere their link
constructed projects.
Satellite and Wireless
Technology—PGDC provides a
dynamic range of communication technologies that includes
PGDC also provides value-
the use of Mobile Satellite
added services to the space/
Services (MSS) and other
aerial-based industry in the form
wireless systems as the company
of geographical information ser-
as an SBA-certified 8(a) firm by
to their ancestral homelands by
the Port Graham Corporation,
frequently visiting for subsis-
an Alaska Native Claims
tence purposes and seeking to
performs EF&I services for a
vices (GIS), facility-management
Settlement Act (ANCSA)
maintain their ties to the land
wide range of uses; among these
information systems, mapping,
Corporation that is based in
and water of Kenai Fjords.
are vessel- and vehicle-tracking
CADD, animation, and
Port Graham, a small fishing
Under the 1971 Alaska
systems, SCADA networks, and
design visualization.
village located in Southcentral
Native Claims Settlement Act
all types of telecommunications
Alaska. PGDC has now
(ANCSA), the people of Port
expanded its capabilities and
Graham selected 44,000 acres
allowing the National Park
Courtesy of Port Graham Development Corporation
The Russians coerced the
PGDC also provides Modtech™,
Courtesy of Port Graham Development Corporation
customers. A full-service
Courtesy of Port Graham Development Corporation
THE CORPORATION
Biological Detection—
Top: A resident of Port Graham returns
from a day of fishing.
networks. PGDC also provides
PGDC has recently teamed with
voice, data and video over the
Toxin Alert, a biotechnology
Above: PGDC technician installing
communications equipment on a tower
in Valdez, Alaska.
Globalstar network.
company dedicated to bringing
expertise by an alliance with
within the Kenai Fjords and
Service (NPS) to manage Port
industry leaders who founded
reclaimed their birthright and
Graham’s land until 1995, when
and developed New Horizons
ancestral homelands from
the title was conveyed to Port
Imagery, Other Software
to market. Toxin Guard is a
Utilizing this new technology,
Telecom, Inc. (NHTI). An
the United States government in
Graham Corporation (PGC).
Services—PGDC provides
patented system of placing
PGDC has the unique opportu-
ISO-certified firm, NHTI is
1974. In 1980, President Carter
PGC and the Park Service are
remote sensing and satellite/
antibody-based biochemical
nity to open a new channel for
an award-winning project-
signed the Alaska National
pursuing a co-management
aerial imagery for a variety of
sensors on polymer-packaging
sales of smoked fish using the
management; architect/engineer-
Interest Lands Conservation Act
agreement but PGC retains the
requirements and applications.
films to detect pathogens or
Toxin Guard™ plastic wrap
ing (A/E); construction;
and created the 500,000-acre
rights of full private ownership
other selected target agents.
designed to detect the presence
and engineer, furnish & install,
Kenai Fjords National Park
to manage and develop their
When packaging material is
(EF&I) company that
lands to the benefit of their
protected with Toxin Guard ,
specializes in supporting the
shareholders in perpetuity.
a signal will alert the consumer
™
GIS, Mapping, and Satellite
its Toxin Guard™ technology
™
of Botulinum.
™
or inspector if pathogens,
telecom/data industry.
poisons or other adulterants are
present inside the package.
182
183
Aerial view of the village of
Port Graham.
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ALASKA
With all of the challenges of
breathtaking ports and harbors
operating in America’s largest
that provide many a fishing
state, “trying harder” means a
opportunity on the Kenai
whole lot more for Avis Rent A
Peninsula and Southeast Alaska.
Car in Alaska. That is because
Since 1955, Avis Rent A Car
with eight statewide locations,
has been getting people around
stretching from Fairbanks to
Alaska in style.
Regardless of their travel
only way to ensure Avis’s
needs, customers have come to
customers are handled with care.
expect a high standard of perfor-
As the only statewide car
mance from Avis. Service is
rental agency in Alaska, Avis is
delivered by a friendly, efficient,
able to provide travelers with
and well-trained staff. Despite
seamless services and unmatched
Alaska’s vastness, the company’s
consistency in service and rates
statewide locations give
across an area one-fifth the size
customers the security of
of the contiguous United States.
knowing that a friendly Avis
The popular “rent it here,
office is not far away.
leave it there” rentals available
The list of Avis amenities
from Avis allow customers to
includes: competitive rates for
customize their own itineraries
business and leisure; a fleet
to maximize their Alaskan
of over 1,400 late-model
adventure.
vehicles including sport-utility
Avis serves an increasingly
Courtesy of Avis Rent A Car
Petersburg, trying harder is the
Courtesy of Avis Rent A Car
vehicles and vans; Alaska
large number of tourists drawn
Airlines frequent-flyer miles
to Alaska’s vivid scenery and rich
with qualifying rentals; and a
culture. These visitors are
statewide network of locations
discovering there is a lot to see
in Anchorage, Fairbanks,
on the 14,000 miles of roads in
Juneau, Kenai, Kodiak,
Alaska, from the metropolitan
Petersburg, Sitka, Whittier,
feel of Anchorage to the rustic
and Skagway.
National Parks and sparkling
rivers and lakes across the Last
Frontier and from the Summer
Solstice in Fairbanks to the
Courtesy of Avis Rent A Car
OF
Courtesy of Avis Rent A Car
AVIS RENT A CAR
184
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FRONTIER FLYING SERVICE, INC.
Bob Hajdukovich, president of
Frontier Flying Service, standing in
front of a BE1900.
Regulations, the highest level of
almost 300 Alaskans, with
safety record. In addition to
1974 when the company had
safety, and began operating the
annual sales in excess of
being a Part 121 Air Carrier,
12 employees and generated
twin-turbine 19-seat Beechcraft
28 million dollars, operating a
whose standards are the highest
about a million dollars in
1900 airliner. Frontier is the
fleet of 21 aircraft. The Beech
in aviation, Frontier is a
revenue. John’s seven children
only carrier north of Anchorage
1900 aircraft now generate
member of the Medallion
have “grown up” in the airline
that successfully completed
over 80 percent of the revenues.
Foundation. The foundation
and the industry. Today, three
the transition to the Part 121
One philosophy that the
awards stars to applicant carriers
of the children continue to
operations. Six out of forty-two
company has stayed true to
who successfully develop
grow and refine the company.
carriers in the state took on the
throughout the years is a slow
company-wide programs for
task of transitioning. Today,
but steady growth.
Ground & Maintenance
Frontier operated out of
a small building on the
Frontier is one of only three
public side of the Fairbanks
who have remained in business
federal law called the Rural
Control, Simulator Training,
International Airport until
after the transition.
Service Improvement Act will
Internal Audit, and Safety.
1997 when it moved to the
The implementation of a
Operations were expanded to
personnel training, Operational
undoubtedly be remembered as
Frontier has received all
commercial side into the
the North Slope of Alaska in
one of the most significant and
but one of the stars to date and
REGIONAL AIRLINE
Fairbanks International passen-
1989 and south to Anchorage in
controversial events to impact
is aggressively pursuing the
SERVING ALASKA
ger terminal, a much larger
1999. Frontier supports oil
small-airline aviation in the state
last star.
Frontier Flying Service, Inc. has
maintenance facility that
and gas producers on the North
of Alaska in the past 30 years.
the largest operational footprint
allowed for future growth and
Slope with passenger and
This law attempts to encourage
the company. Natural gas and
of any regional air carrier
efficient operations.
light-freight service, as well as
and reward airline operations
oil development on the North
crew changes to remote camps
like Frontier, who are full-
Slope continue to provide new
serving the state of Alaska.
Most operations in the early
The future is bright for
In 2005, Frontier transported
years were based in Fairbanks.
with “flag stops” off the
service carriers transporting
opportunities. Most of the
150,000 passengers and over
In 1996, Frontier transitioned
scheduled service.
passengers, mail, and freight to
50-plus communities that
the communities in the state.
Frontier serves today will always
ten million pounds of freight
and mail.
Established in 1950, by
retired Air Force Colonel
Richard McIntyre, Frontier
catered to the bush communities
in Alaska by flying scheduled
Courtesy of Frontier Flying Service, Inc.
Frontier has an excellent
100 percent of the company in
Courtesy of Frontier Flying Service, Inc.
Setting sun gleaming off of one of
Frontier’s BE1900s.
Today, Frontier employs
to Part 121 Federal Aviation
Courtesy of Frontier Flying Service, Inc.
Courtesy of Frontier Flying Service, Inc., Photo by Dave Magoffin, Frontier pilot
John Hajdukovich bought
be in need of quality airline
service. For the past 56 years,
Frontier has continued on from
where the early bush pilots of
Alaska left off in the early days
of Alaska aviation. Alaska is
mail routes as a subcontractor
a great state to live and work
for Wien Airlines and flying
in because while Frontier does
charters throughout the state.
not have to carry a spare
The fleet consisted of aircraft
propeller on the side of its
ranging from a Cessna 170
aircraft, Frontier still has that
on floats to a single-engine
pioneering spirit that makes
Otter for the larger loads.
this state special.
A Frontier PA31-350 is being offloaded
in Anaktuvuk Pass.
Frontier’s BE99 that was acquired from
Cape Smythe Air Service.
186
187
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ALASKA MARINE HIGHWAY
from Whittier east to Kodiak
Island and then down the
rugged Aleutian Chain, stopping
at small villages along the way.
The last stop on the 1,500-mile
route is Dutch Harbor/Unalaska.
On most of the AMHS
ferries, private cabins are
Courtesy of Alaska Marine Highway, Photo by Tom Doran
Courtesy of Alaska Marine Highway, Photo by Peter Metcalfe
Ferry passengers enjoy a close-up view
of a tidewater glacier.
available as well as restaurants,
cafeterias, and cocktail lounges.
On the longer routes, U.S.
Forest Service or U.S. Fish and
Wildlife interpreters are on
board to give passengers lectures
on the natural wonders that
The Alaska Marine Highway
System has been designated
as an All American Road by
the federal Department of
Transportation. This designation
is the highest honor that any
highway can achieve; there are
only 27 All American Roads in
the United States. The AMHS
M/V CHENEGA cruises in the
Valdez Narrows.
Courtesy of Alaska Marine Highway, Photo by David Weintraub
abound along the way.
is rich in history, Native and
The Alaska Marine Highway
For visitors to Alaska, the
The most popular summertime
Russian culture, wildlife viewing
System (AMHS) provides a link
ferry provides an opportunity to
itinerary is to board the
opportunities, and world-class
to coastal communities that are
experience coastal Alaska at
ship in either Bellingham,
beauty. For the most part, the
not connected to a road system.
an unhurried pace and in close-
Washington or Prince Rupert,
highway is nestled in the protec-
In many of the 32 Alaskan
up detail. Many passengers
British Columbia and
tion of archipelagos making
communities served by AMHS,
bring along their vehicles,
travel the inside passage to
the ride smooth and calm. In
the ferry is the only way
RVs, motorcycles, or boats to
Haines or Skagway. Paved
summertime, reservations are a
residents can travel from one
enjoy stops along the route.
roads from both of these
must and travel plans should be
village to another. Both the
communities provide access to
made several months in advance
federal and state governments
the Alaska Highway.
to assure a place on the ships.
consider the ferry system
M/V MALASPINA serves Inside
Passage communities. All vessels in
the Alaska Marine Highway fleet have
food-and-beverage service and both
solarium and observation lounges.
Travelers may also sail across
to be a highway, consequently,
scenic, glacier-filled Prince
funding is very similar to
William Sound to the communi-
any paved highway in the
ties of Cordova, Valdez, and
United States.
Whittier. The ferry also sails
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189
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FAIRBANKS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Whitehorse, Canada; Narita,
There have been numerous
Japan; and domestic flights that
changes to the Ted Stevens
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
stretch from the west coast to
Anchorage International Airport
International Cargo: Improve
the Great Lakes region. In fact,
since the 1960s when the
Payload v. Range and Superb
enplanements have grown 2.9
Anchorage airport was first
Operating Conditions
percent for the past 20 years—
Businesses can increase their
14 percent last year alone.
payload—and bottom line—by
Positioned at the “top of the
recognized as “Air Crossroads of
the World.” Today, the newly
renovated airport sports state-
stopping in Fairbanks. Located
world”, airlines can increase
9.5 hours from 90 percent
the utility of their aircraft by
of the industrialized northern
offering flights in Fairbanks that
hemisphere, Fairbanks
do not interfere with their
floor glass panels of the new
International Airport offers
Lower 48 operations. Also,
C concourse.
world-competitive flight times
business is booming. Tourism is
between Europe and Asia and
up 20 percent annually along
reflection on the needs of today’s
the continental U.S. and Asia.
with robust exploration for oil,
economy in Alaska. It is an
gas, and mining.
airport that showcases the many
operating in Asia and North
one terminal provides smooth
assets of Alaska; demonstrates
America. The rapid expansion of
function for summer airline
the ease, convenience, and speed
the air cargo markets during
customers and cruise tour
of modern Alaskan travel; and
the past dozen years has dramat-
passengers.
also provides information about
ically increased the number
the environment. Other key
of flights and weight of cargo, as
terminal or airport facility. It is
amenities that provide customer
flights find Anchorage a conve-
a showcase work of architecture
service are the visitor centers
nient location for refueling.
and function that gives its visi-
staffed by the Anchorage
Measured by landed gross
tors a taste of Alaska. Visiting
Convention & Visitors Bureau
weight, the airport’s 18 billion
the Last Frontier in a high-tech,
and free wireless Internet access.
pounds of all-cargo aircraft
customer-friendly environment
landed weight ranks number
is what Alaskans and visitors
location has attracted nearly
one in the U.S. and in terms of
experience when they fly to and
every major air cargo carrier
cargo tonnage, the airport ranks
from Anchorage, Alaska.
out approaches and departures,
through the many ceiling-to-
The renovations are a direct
To top it off, Fairbanks
delay-free ATC operations,
International’s facilities are
diversion-free weather, short
excellent—and getting better.
taxiing distances, no curfews or
Construction has started on a
operating restrictions, an
new terminal scheduled to open
11,800-foot runway with perfor-
in April 2009 that will expand
mance-boosting clearways and
gates from five to six and reduce
Category III ILS, U.S. Customs
processing times.
and Border patrol/maintenance
capitalizes on beautiful vistas
Courtesy of Fairbanks International Airport
Consider this: straight in and
of-the-art architecture that
Stop by. Increase your aircraft’s
teams/ground handling and
utility—and your company’s
clothing lines, and aviation
fueling available 24 hours a day,
bottom line.
companies all consider Fairbanks
and modern hotels at competi-
home for their needs.
Top: An Alaska Airlines plane is
ready for boarding at Fairbanks
International Airport.
Above: Fairbanks International offers
direct service to Frankfurt, Germany;
Whitehorse, Canada; Narita, Japan;
and domestic flights that stretch from
the west coast to the Great Lakes region.
The Airport’s strategic
tive rates. The translation is:
Cold Weather Testing: It’s All Here
one-hour 747 turnarounds,
Fairbanks is a worldwide
for cold-weather testing as well.
improved block time savings,
cold-weather testing area.
The Airport can accommodate
and increased payloads.
Temperatures in November
any aircraft: Fort Greely
makes the Anchorage Airport
through February approach an
(only 80 miles away) houses a
unique in that it has a direct
International. They are heavy in
average low of –20 degrees
premier outside testing track,
connection to the Alaska
payload and light on the wallet.
Fahrenheit with routine dips
and the University of Alaska
Railroad. The combination of
between –40 to 60 degrees
Fairbanks has the Cold Weather
air and rail transportation at
International and Domestic
Fahrenheit. International and
Climate Research Center
Passengers: Robust Market
domestic car manufactures,
and Cold Weather Housing
Check out Fairbanks
There is ample infrastructure
With only 80,000 people, most
The Airport is more than a
third largest in the world.
Multi-modal transportation
Top: The new C concourse was designed
and built primarily by Alaskans. Glass
exterior walls provide breathtaking
views of the Chugach and Alaska Range
mountains. Throughout the concourse,
Alaska Native art enhances the
Alaska theme.
Above: The Ted Stevens Anchorage
International Airport is ranked as the
number one airport in the United States
for landed weight of cargo aircraft
and number three in the world for
cargo throughput.
Testing Facility.
folks are surprised that Fairbanks
Bottom line, we’re cold—and
International boasts direct ser-
equipped to test it.
vice to Frankfurt, Germany;
190
Courtesy of Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
FAIRBANKS
Courtesy of Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
BY USING
Courtesy of Fairbanks International Airport
IMPROVING THE BOTTOM LINE
TED STEVENS ANCHORAGE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
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