McGhee Tyson Airport
Knoxville/Maryville, US · 12 miles (19 km) south of Knoxville
Getting to the city
| Mode |
|---|
| Charters Ground transportation |
| Hotel shuttles Ground transportation |
| Rental cars Ground transportation |
| Ride shares Ground transportation |
Insider notes
If you want food after a long flight, plan carefully, as many concessions close by 7:00 PM.
Seek out the airside rocking-chair seating by the glass wall for an excellent place to rest.
The free Phone & Wait Lot behind the Airport Hilton is ideal for pickups without paying parking fees.
Welcome
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is more than just a transportation hub; it serves as a gateway to both the urban vibe of Knoxville and the natural beauty of the Smokies. This small regional airport sports a distinctly local feel, prioritizing practicality over flashiness. Its compact design makes navigation a breeze, bolstered by strong Wi-Fi throughout the terminal and a surprisingly solid range of food options, given its size. However, bear in mind that most concessions shut down by 7:00 PM, which can make late-night travel planning essential to avoid disappointment.
At a glance
- Passengers per year: Data not specified
- Runways: 2
- Terminals: Main Terminal
- Distance from Knoxville: 12 miles (19 km) south
- Hubs: None
Terminals & layout
The Main Terminal at TYS is compact and easy to navigate, with a layout spread over two levels. Allegiant Air, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines operate here, so expect most flights to serve regional or domestic routes. Security-side amenities, such as food and retail outlets and the Mamava pod, are conveniently clustered near the checkpoint. This practical setup allows travelers to orient themselves easily after screening. Despite its small size, TYS maximizes utility with plug-in stations and outlets scattered strategically throughout to keep devices charged.
Getting to and from the city
Getting to and from McGhee Tyson Airport relies mainly on rental cars, ride shares, taxis, chartered services, and hotel shuttles, as public transit options are limited. A rental car may give you the most freedom to explore the nearby Smoky Mountains and their scenic routes. Parking is straightforward at TYS, with options like Short-Term Parking for $12.00 per day and Economy Lot C for $8.00 per day, depending on your length of stay.
Traveller essentials
Free Wi-Fi via the *TYS-FreeWiFi* network allows you to work remotely or browse easily without registration needed. For those picking up arriving passengers, the free Phone & Wait Lot behind the Airport Hilton simplifies the process, so there's no need to circle endlessly. A covered walkway connects the terminal to an on-site airport hotel, perfect for early departures or overnight cancellations due to disrupted flights.
Dining & shopping highlights
Despite being a regional airport, TYS holds its own with a good selection of familiar eateries. Options such as Ruby Tuesday, Starbucks Coffee, Quiznos Subs, Cinnabon, and Uno Express Pizza satisfy various cravings. For shopping, the Tennessee Marketplace is a must-visit, offering local knick-knacks ideal for last-minute souvenir shopping.
Lounges
The absence of pay-per-use lounges might be a downside for travelers seeking a luxurious wait time. However, TYS softens this with unique substitute seating like the rocking chairs along the panoramic glass wall — a coveted spot among frequent flyers for relaxation and people-watching.
Insider tips
Knowing the finer details of navigating McGhee Tyson Airport can improve your experience significantly. Travelers note that the Smoky Mountain-themed decor gives TYS a stronger sense of local identity than many other airports its size.