Flying into Knoxville: Your Guide to Airlines Serving McGhee Tyson Airport

The short answer: Currently, four major airlines serve Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). These are Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. Each offers a variety of routes, connecting Knoxville to destinations across the United States, and beyond via connecting flights. Let’s dive deeper into what each airline offers and answer some frequently asked questions about flying into Knoxville.

A Closer Look at the Airlines Serving Knoxville

Allegiant Air: The Budget-Friendly Option

Allegiant Air is known for its low-cost fares and focuses primarily on leisure travel. While their flight schedules may be less frequent than other airlines, they often offer direct flights to popular vacation destinations. Be sure to check their website for seasonal routes and special deals. Keep in mind that Allegiant often charges extra for things like checked bags, seat selection, and even carry-on bags above a certain size, so factor those costs into your overall travel budget.

American Airlines: Extensive Network, Global Reach

American Airlines provides a comprehensive network from Knoxville, connecting passengers to destinations across the US and the world through its hubs, particularly Charlotte (CLT) and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW). They offer a range of fare classes, from basic economy to first class, catering to different travel needs and budgets. As a major carrier, American Airlines provides frequent flyer benefits and access to a vast network of partner airlines.

Delta Air Lines: Reliability and Customer Service

Delta Air Lines is another major player at McGhee Tyson Airport, primarily funneling passengers through its hub in Atlanta (ATL). Known for its on-time performance and customer service, Delta offers a variety of flight options and fare classes. Delta’s SkyMiles program is a popular loyalty program that allows travelers to earn and redeem miles for flights, upgrades, and other travel-related perks.

United Airlines: Connecting Knoxville to the World

United Airlines completes the roster of major airlines at TYS, connecting passengers to destinations across the US and the world through its hubs, particularly Chicago (ORD) and Washington Dulles (IAD). United offers a range of fare classes and services, catering to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a more premium experience. United’s MileagePlus program is a valuable tool for frequent travelers, offering opportunities to earn and redeem miles for flights and other rewards.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flying into Knoxville (TYS)

1. What are the most common destinations from Knoxville (TYS)?

The most common destinations from Knoxville often include hub cities like Atlanta (ATL), Charlotte (CLT), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Chicago (ORD), and Washington Dulles (IAD). These hubs provide easy connections to a wide range of domestic and international destinations. Additionally, Allegiant Air offers direct flights to popular vacation destinations like Florida cities.

2. Does Knoxville Airport (TYS) offer international flights?

While Knoxville Airport (TYS) does not offer direct international flights, passengers can easily connect to international destinations through the hubs mentioned above, such as Atlanta (ATL) for Delta, Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) for American, and Washington Dulles (IAD) for United. These hubs offer extensive international networks.

3. What ground transportation options are available at Knoxville Airport (TYS)?

McGhee Tyson Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options, including rental cars (Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Alamo), taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber and Lyft), and shuttle services. Several hotels also offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. Public transportation options are limited.

4. Are there any hotels near Knoxville Airport (TYS)?

Yes, there are several hotels located near McGhee Tyson Airport, offering convenience for travelers. Some popular choices include Hilton Knoxville Airport, Courtyard Knoxville Airport Alcoa, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Knoxville Airport, and Holiday Inn Express Knoxville Airport. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

5. What security measures should I expect at Knoxville Airport (TYS)?

As with all airports, McGhee Tyson Airport follows TSA (Transportation Security Administration) guidelines. Passengers should expect standard security screenings, including metal detectors, body scanners, and bag checks. Be sure to review TSA guidelines regarding prohibited items before traveling. Enrollment in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry can significantly expedite the security screening process.

6. Is there Wi-Fi available at Knoxville Airport (TYS)?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout McGhee Tyson Airport, allowing passengers to stay connected while waiting for their flights.

7. What dining and shopping options are available at Knoxville Airport (TYS)?

McGhee Tyson Airport offers a selection of dining and shopping options. You’ll find restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, from quick snacks to sit-down meals. Shopping options include newsstands, gift shops, and stores selling local souvenirs. Keep in mind that hours of operation may vary depending on flight schedules and time of year.

8. How early should I arrive at Knoxville Airport (TYS) before my flight?

It is generally recommended to arrive at McGhee Tyson Airport at least 90 minutes to 2 hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights. This allows ample time for parking, check-in, security screening, and navigating to your gate. During peak travel periods or holidays, it’s wise to arrive even earlier.

9. Does Knoxville Airport (TYS) have parking facilities?

Yes, McGhee Tyson Airport offers a range of parking options, including short-term, long-term, and covered parking. The rates vary depending on the duration of your stay and the parking location. A cell phone lot is available for those waiting to pick up arriving passengers.

10. Are there any car rental services available at Knoxville Airport (TYS)?

Yes, several major car rental companies operate at McGhee Tyson Airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Alamo. Rental car counters are conveniently located near the baggage claim area. It is recommended to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

11. How can I check the status of a flight arriving or departing from Knoxville Airport (TYS)?

You can check the status of a flight arriving or departing from McGhee Tyson Airport through several channels, including:

• Airline Websites: Visit the website of the specific airline operating the flight.
• Flight Tracking Websites: Use popular flight tracking websites like FlightAware or FlightStats.
• McGhee Tyson Airport Website: Check the airport’s official website for flight information.
• Airline Apps: Download and use the airline’s mobile app for real-time flight updates.

12. What are some tips for finding the best flight deals to Knoxville (TYS)?

Finding the best flight deals requires some strategic planning. Consider the following tips:

• Be Flexible with Travel Dates: Prices often vary depending on the day of the week and time of year.
• Book in Advance: Booking several weeks or months in advance can often secure lower fares.
• Consider Alternate Airports: While not always practical, checking prices at nearby airports could reveal better deals.
• Use Flight Comparison Websites: Websites like Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner can help you compare prices from different airlines.
• Sign Up for Airline Email Alerts: Receive notifications about special deals and promotions from airlines that serve Knoxville.
• Consider Budget Airlines: Allegiant Air, in particular, can offer very competitive fares.