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Fly High to Knoxville: Your Guide to Airlines Serving McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

So, you’re planning a trip to Knoxville, Tennessee, and the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains? Excellent choice! Now, the crucial question: Which airlines fly to Knoxville, Tennessee? The answer is that several major airlines offer service to McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), making it a relatively accessible destination. You can fly direct to Knoxville on Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, and United Airlines.

Exploring Your Airline Options for Knoxville

Let’s break down these airlines a bit further to give you a better sense of what each offers and which might be the best fit for your travel needs.

American Airlines: A Legacy Carrier with Extensive Reach

American Airlines provides a solid, dependable option for flying into Knoxville. Being one of the largest airlines globally, they generally offer frequent flights, particularly from their hubs. Expect connecting flights to Knoxville from hubs like Charlotte (CLT), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), and Washington, D.C. (DCA). American Airlines is often favored by those who value reliability and accrual of frequent flyer miles within the AAdvantage program. Don’t be surprised if the aircraft on shorter routes are regional jets, but they are perfectly comfortable and get the job done.

Delta Air Lines: The Atlanta Giant’s Knoxville Presence

Delta Air Lines is another major player serving Knoxville, primarily through its hub in Atlanta (ATL). Given Atlanta’s proximity and Delta’s dominance at Hartsfield-Jackson, this is a very common connection point for travelers heading to TYS. Delta provides a wide network of domestic and international connections via Atlanta, making Knoxville accessible from nearly anywhere. Delta’s SkyMiles program is also a major draw for frequent flyers. In addition to Atlanta, you might find connecting flights through Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) or Detroit (DTW).

United Airlines: Connecting Knoxville to the Midwest and Beyond

United Airlines brings a connection point from the Midwest through their hubs in Chicago (ORD) and Denver (DEN) offering flights to Knoxville. Passengers can take advantage of United’s MileagePlus loyalty program, and often find that connecting flights through these hubs can open up a plethora of other destinations, particularly on the West Coast and further into the interior of the United States.

Allegiant Air: The Budget-Friendly Choice

Allegiant Air is a low-cost carrier focusing on leisure travel. This means you’ll often find direct flights to Knoxville from smaller cities and vacation destinations. Their strategy is to connect smaller markets without the need for connecting through larger hubs. Keep an eye on Allegiant’s route network, as it can change seasonally, but they offer a great option if you’re flexible and looking for a bargain. Routes may include destinations such as St. Pete-Clearwater (PIE) or Orlando/Sanford (SFB).

Frontier Airlines: Another Option for Budget Travelers

Frontier Airlines is another budget carrier, like Allegiant. They offer a no-frills experience, allowing you to customize your travel with optional add-ons. Frontier focuses on offering low base fares to price-sensitive travelers. They offer flights to Knoxville from cities such as Denver (DEN) and Orlando (MCO).

Booking Your Flight: Tips and Considerations

When booking your flight to Knoxville, keep a few things in mind:

Flexibility is Key: If your travel dates are flexible, you’re more likely to find better deals, especially with budget airlines.
Compare Prices: Use online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Kayak, or Google Flights to compare prices across different airlines.
Consider Hub Airports: Flying through a major hub airport, even if it adds a connection, can sometimes be cheaper than a direct flight on a smaller airline.
Factor in Baggage Fees: Budget airlines often have strict baggage policies and charge extra for carry-ons and checked bags.
Book in Advance (Sometimes): While last-minute deals occasionally pop up, booking in advance is generally recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
Airport Location: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is conveniently located south of Knoxville, making it easily accessible from downtown and surrounding areas.

FAQs: Your Knoxville Flight Questions Answered

To further assist you in planning your trip, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about flying to Knoxville.

1. What is the airport code for Knoxville’s airport?

The airport code for McGhee Tyson Airport serving Knoxville, Tennessee, is TYS.

2. Are there any international flights to Knoxville?

No, McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) does not currently offer any direct international flights. All flights are domestic. If you need to arrive from another country, you will have to connect through a larger international airport.

3. Which airline offers the most flights to Knoxville?

Delta Air Lines, due to its major hub in Atlanta, typically offers the most frequent flights and connections to Knoxville.

4. What are the best times to find cheap flights to Knoxville?

Generally, flying during the off-season (late fall, winter excluding holidays, and early spring) will yield the cheapest flights. Weekday travel (Tuesday and Wednesday) is often less expensive than weekend travel.

5. Does Knoxville have TSA PreCheck?

Yes, McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) participates in the TSA PreCheck program. This can save you significant time at security checkpoints.

6. What ground transportation options are available at McGhee Tyson Airport?

You can find rental cars, taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber and Lyft), and airport shuttle services at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). Public transportation options are limited.

7. Are there hotels near Knoxville Airport?

Yes, there are several hotels located near McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), offering convenient accommodation options for travelers. These range from budget-friendly to more upscale options.

8. Is there Wi-Fi available at Knoxville Airport?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS).

9. What are some nearby attractions to Knoxville Airport?

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dollywood, and various attractions in downtown Knoxville, including the University of Tennessee, the Market Square, and numerous museums.

10. How far is Knoxville Airport from downtown Knoxville?

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is approximately 12 miles south of downtown Knoxville, a drive that typically takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

11. Are there any direct flights from Florida to Knoxville?

Yes, Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines offer seasonal and year-round flights to Knoxville from various cities in Florida, including Orlando (MCO/SFB) and St. Pete-Clearwater (PIE).

12. How early should I arrive at Knoxville Airport before my flight?

For domestic flights, it’s generally recommended to arrive at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) at least 90 minutes to 2 hours before your scheduled departure time. During peak travel periods, it’s wise to allow even more time.

By understanding the airlines that serve Knoxville and planning your trip strategically, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to this vibrant Tennessee city. So go ahead, book your flight, and get ready to experience all that Knoxville has to offer!