June 13, 2025

Mobile voice, text and data service has been fully restored in Nome, Kotzebue and Utqiagvik. We've improved internet service in Utqiagvik and Nome to speeds equivalent to our Fast plan — up to 250 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload. While service has improved, we're continuing to work closely with our partner, Quintillion Networks, to fully resolve the network outage.

What happened?
On January 18, our connectivity partner Quintillion Networks experienced an underwater fiber break in the Beaufort Sea, resulting in slower internet speeds and limited mobile service. This fiber serves GCI customers in Nome, Kotzebue, Point Hope, Wainwright, and Utqiagvik, and their service has been impacted.

How has GCI responded?
GCI technicians acted quickly to restore service to our customers using our full suite of connectivity tools. The power of Alaska’s Most Advanced Network means we keep you connected even when an act of nature like this occurs. We are maximizing every tool in our toolkit to ensure GCI customers remain connected throughout the duration of the fiber cut. This includes:

• Adding additional capacity over different technologies like our microwave infrastructure through GCI’s TERRA Network and satellite backhaul.
• Adding additional LEO and GEO satellite solutions.

While these technologies can’t support the speed and capacity of fiber, we will ensure critical health and safety services remain prioritized, and that our customers stay connected. 

Will GCI customers in affected communities receive credits?
Following the restoration of mobile service in your community, GCI will no longer provide credits for wireless service after May 14.

Nome and Utqiagvik
Now that internet service has reached Fast plan levels, GCI will adjust service credits starting June 15. Customers will receive monthly credits for any internet charges above the cost of the Fast plan.

• No action is needed — credits will be applied automatically
• Credits may be prorated based on your service experience
• Please continue to pay your bill in full; credits will appear on future statements

Kotzebue
Internet service remains impacted. Customers in Kotzebue will continue to receive 100% internet service credits pending service improvements.

Other communities
Customers in other areas that experienced brief service distruptions received a one-time credit on their February bills.

How is GCI keeping affected customers informed and supported?
Additional details were shared via email in mid-June.

We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your continued patience. GCI remains committed to restoring full service and keeping you informed every step of the way.

When will the fiber cut be repaired?
A repair of the subsea fiber break is not likely possible until late summer or early fall due to sea ice preventing a repair crew and vessel from entering the area and completing a subsea fiber repair.

What experience should I expect until service is fully restored?
Mobile service is fully restored and working at pre-break levels. Internet service in Kotzebue will be limited to basic web browsing and checking email. Internet service in Nome and Utqiagvik will be at the level of our Fast plan, or 250 Mbps download, 10 Mbps upload — suitable for streaming, video conferencing, and most basic internet needs. We’re actively working on managing our network to improve your experience and will report any additional service improvements as they are made.