Production Begins on Smithsonian Channel’s Ice Airport Alaska

Smithsonian Channel has commissioned the new six-part series Ice Airport Alaska from Rare TV, set to premiere this fall, and production on the show is underway.

Filmed at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, the show will give viewers a close-up look at the only hub airport in the world that operates in brutal temperatures and contends with regular wind speeds of over 100 m.p.h.

Located nine and a half flying hours from 90 percent of the industrialized world, this new series chronicles the day-to-day challenges of the all-weather heroes who keep the airport open, freight flowing and passengers flying. Ice Airport Alaska features unique access to Alaska Airlines, U.S. Customs and Border, TSA, airport police and a myriad of airport contractors.

“Our viewers love aviation programming, especially when it combines unique access and drama, and this series reveals the extreme challenges that Ted Stevens Airport faces on a daily basis,” said David Royle, executive VP and chief programming officer at Smithsonian Networks. “Viewers also have a longstanding fascination with Alaska, mainly because of its intense weather conditions and captivating characters. We’re excited to combine aviation and Alaska, and to bring our viewers the definitive story of the airport that never freezes.”

“Alaska is an incredibly tough environment to work in and it takes dedicated teamwork to keep the airport running smoothly throughout an icy winter,” said Rare’s Christian Broadhurst. “We’re delighted to have been given the exclusive opportunity to follow the full range of activities that help make Ted Stevens such a busy international hub airport.”