NANA Management Services (NMS) in partnership with Alaska Airlines is introducing WHILL Autonomous Wheelchairs at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), bringing new technology-enabled mobility options to travelers who need wheelchair assistance. NMS currently provides wheelchair services at ANC as a part of a contract with Alaska Airlines. The autonomous program expands access and independence for passengers while helping strengthen service reliability during peak travel periods.
Autonomous mobility devices support a more comfortable, self-directed experience for travelers who want greater control over their journey through the terminal. For ANC, the introduction of WHILL autonomous chairs reflects an investment in innovation, accessibility, and customer service. For NMS, the technology strengthens our ability to deliver reliable mobility services while helping address staffing challenges and improving consistency when passenger volumes surge.
The WHILL program both addresses an existing operational challenge and creates a new opportunity for modernized assistance. The chairs help support service levels during high-volume travel times while oKering a technology-enabled option that enhances passenger independence and overall travel experience.
This launch represents the first deployment of autonomous mobility assistance at ANC, introducing a new level of accessibility technology for Alaska Airlines guests using wheelchair services. NMS assumed responsibility for wheelchair assistance services for Alaska Airlines guests at ANC in November 2025, with a continued focus on safety, service quality, and innovation.
“This program is about dignity and independence in travel,” said Clinton Lasley, VP Food, Facilities, & Maintenance for NMS. “Whether a passenger is traveling with limited mobility, recovering from an injury, or simply needs assistance navigating a busy terminal, WHILL autonomous wheelchairs help travelers move at their own pace—with support from our trained team.”
“By bringing autonomous mobility assistance to the Anchorage airport, we’re advancing accessibility and the guest experience,” said Marilyn Romano, Regional VP Alaska for Alaska Airlines. “As a vital hub for Alaska, this innovation ensures Alaska Airlines guests have safe, dependable options from curb to gate and complements the accessibility services we provide today.”
“Anchorage represents an important step in expanding access to autonomous mobility in North America,” said Shane Bogni, President, WHILL Autonomous Service, North America & EMEA. “Our goal is to give passengers more independence and confidence as they move through the airport, while also helping our partners deliver more consistent and reliable service, especially during peak travel periods.”
How to request WHILL Autonomous Wheelchair service at ANC
- Request wheelchair assistance through Alaska Airlines at the time of booking, prior to arrival, or upon entering the terminal.
- Visit an NMS assistance kiosk in the terminal, where NMS team members will coordinate wheelchair services.
- Eligibility screening. On site, NMS staff will screen passengers to confirm they meet the mobility requirements for use of the autonomous devices.
- TSA support and transition. Passengers will be assisted through the TSA screening process and then transferred to a WHILL autonomous wheelchair.
- Guidance and education. NMS agents will provide instruction so passengers can use the technology safely and confidently.
NMS encourages passengers and travel partners to help spread the word that Alaska Airlines at ANC now offers autonomous mobility options. Travelers who may benefit from wheelchair services are encouraged to request assistance through the airline and ask about WHILL autonomous wheelchairs when traveling through ANC.
