Aerial View of Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport

Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport TYS

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TYS Airport Insights & Guide

Key TYS Airport Topics:

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from TYS-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"Since TYS has a single terminal with two concourses, getting around is quite straightforward. Concourse A is mostly for regional flights, while Concourse B handles the larger carriers like Delta and United. The shuttle service between concourses is quick and efficient, running every 7-10 minutes." — David J., Maryville, TN, January 2023

"Keep an eye on the signage as you navigate through the terminal. The airport has done a great job of placing clear and informative signs that guide you to your gate, baggage claim, or any amenities you might need." — Emily R., Alcoa, TN, March 2023

Getting To/From the City

"If you’re heading to downtown Knoxville, consider using the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) bus service. It’s affordable and runs frequently. Alternatively, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and convenient." — Michael S., Knoxville, TN, February 2023

"For those renting a car, the rental car counters are easy to find near the baggage claim area. I recommend booking your car in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times." — Laura K., Farragut, TN, December 2022

Parking

"The short-term parking lot is directly in front of the terminal and is very convenient if you’re just picking someone up. For longer stays, the long-term lot offers a free shuttle service to the terminal that runs every 15 minutes." — James T., Oak Ridge, TN, August 2023

"If you’re looking to save a bit of money, consider the off-airport parking options. They often provide shuttle services to and from the terminal and can be more economical for extended trips." — Maria L., Lenoir City, TN, May 2023

Inside the Airport

"For a quick bite before your flight, Chick-fil-A and Ruby Tuesday are great choices. Both are located before security, so you can grab something even if you’re just dropping someone off." — Kevin B., Sevierville, TN, July 2023

"Don’t miss the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame store if you’re a fan of local sports. It’s a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs or memorabilia." — Sarah W., Knoxville, TN, April 2023

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Try to arrive at least two hours before your flight, especially during peak travel times. Security lines can get long, and it’s always better to have some extra time to relax before your flight." — John D., Alcoa, TN, June 2023

"Keep an eye on the real-time flight information displays throughout the terminal. They provide up-to-date information on flight statuses, which can help you stay informed about any potential delays or gate changes." — Lisa M., Knoxville, TN, November 2022

"Pack light and avoid bringing prohibited items to speed up the security process. The TSA website provides a comprehensive list of what you can and cannot bring in your carry-on." — Ahmed K., Maryville, TN, September 2023

Helpful Tips & Resources

Is Alcoa Airport (TYS) airport a bit unfamiliar to you? Look no further than iFly.com for insightful tips and advice. Read on!

Getting to Know TYS Airport

Welcome to our online guide for Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport, a bustling hub serving the vibrant city of Knoxville, Tennessee. Known for its convenient single-terminal structure and a multitude of amenities, TYS ensures a seamless journey for all its passengers. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the airport's unique features, including its rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on a new adventure, our worldwide airport list can serve as a valuable resource for additional airport information across the globe.

Airport News

Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) has introduced several updates that will interest travelers. Starting June 2024, the airport will offer new direct flights to various destinations, enhancing connectivity for passengers. Additionally, significant changes to parking facilities will take effect from June 1, 2024, aimed at improving convenience and accessibility for travelers using the airport's services. These updates are part of ongoing efforts to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency at TYS. (sources: WBIR, Knox News)

TYS Airport has one terminal building with two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A has 8 gates and Concourse B has 12 gates, totaling 20 gates in the terminal. The major airlines that operate from TYS are American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, and they all use Concourse B.

After arriving at the airport, passengers can proceed to the ticketing and check-in counters located on the upper level of the terminal building. Once checked-in and through security, passengers can access the gates on the lower level of the terminal building. There are several shops, restaurants, and services available throughout the terminal building, including a gift shop, newsstand, coffee shop, and fast food restaurants.

Passengers with connecting flights can use the shuttle service provided by the airport to transfer between concourses. The shuttle runs every 7-10 minutes and is free of charge. There are also several information desks located throughout the terminal building to assist passengers with any questions or concerns they may have.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

The airport has one terminal building that houses both domestic and international flights. The terminal is conveniently designed with all gates and services located on one level, making it easy for passengers to navigate. There are no shuttle buses or trains required to get between terminals, as there is only one terminal building at TYS. Walking times between gates are minimal, and there are plenty of signs and maps available to help guide passengers to their desired location within the terminal.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At TYS, passengers can be picked up and dropped off curbside at the terminal. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, so it is important to plan accordingly. Drivers are not allowed to leave their vehicles unattended at any time, and there is a strict time limit for loading and unloading passengers. To avoid any issues, it is recommended to use the cell-phone waiting area located near the airport entrance.

The cell-phone waiting area is a free parking lot where drivers can wait in their vehicles until their passengers have arrived and are ready to be picked up. This area is conveniently located just a few minutes away from the terminal, and drivers can easily access it by following the signs. Once passengers have arrived, drivers can quickly make their way to the terminal to pick them up curbside. By using the cell-phone waiting area, drivers can avoid the stress of circling the airport or paying for parking, and can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for both themselves and their passengers.

Parking Facilities & Options

When it comes to parking at TYS Airport, there are a few options to choose from. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking in their on-site lots and garages. The short-term lot is located directly in front of the terminal, while the long-term lot is located a short shuttle ride away.

For those who prefer to wait for their arriving passengers, there is a cell phone waiting area located just outside of the airport entrance. This area allows drivers to park for free for up to 30 minutes while waiting for their party to arrive.

Handicapped parking is available in all on-site lots and garages, with designated spaces located near the shuttle stops for the long-term lot.

If you're looking for a more economical option, off-airport parking is available near TYS. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, and can often be reserved in advance for added convenience.

Get details about TYS parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Traveling to and from the airport is made easy with a variety of ground transportation options available to passengers.

For those who prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental companies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. These companies offer a range of vehicles to choose from, and reservations can be made in advance to ensure availability.

Taxi services are also available at the airport, with designated pick-up areas located outside of baggage claim. Fares are typically calculated based on distance traveled, with a minimum fee for shorter trips.

Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are permitted to pick up passengers at the airport. However, there are restrictions on where these services can drop off passengers, so it is important to confirm with the driver before beginning the trip.

Airport shuttles are available for passengers who prefer a more direct and convenient option. These shuttles typically operate on a fixed schedule and can be reserved in advance or upon arrival at the airport. Fares vary depending on the destination.

For those looking for a more affordable option, public transportation is also available. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) provides bus service to and from the airport, with several routes available to choose from. Fares are reasonable and can be paid with cash or a prepaid pass.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're flying in or out, finding the right hotel near the airport can make all the difference. We've gathered information on some of the best hotel options, each with its unique perks and amenities. From hotels with fitness centers, indoor pools, and complimentary Wi-Fi to those offering shuttle services for added convenience, we've got you covered. Many of these hotels are also located near local attractions, making them a great choice for travelers who want to explore the local area. Ready to book now? View all McGhee Tyson Airport Hotels here.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

At Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport, travelers can enjoy a variety of dining and shopping options. For those looking for a quick bite, there are several fast food options available, including Chick-fil-A, Wendy's, and McDonald's. For a sit-down meal, Ruby Tuesday and Blue Coast Grill & Bar offer a more relaxed dining experience. Both restaurants are located in the main terminal area, before security.

When it comes to shopping, travelers can browse a variety of stores, including Hudson News, CNBC News, and Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. Hudson News offers a wide selection of books, magazines, and snacks, while CNBC News specializes in electronics and travel accessories. For sports fans, Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame is a must-visit store, offering a variety of sports memorabilia and souvenirs. All of these stores are located in the main terminal area.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Knoxville Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, check out the food and shopping page.

Passenger Services

Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport offers a variety of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable and convenient as possible.

For those needing to stay connected, free wifi is available throughout the airport.

If you have lost an item during your travels, the airport's lost and found department can assist you in locating it.

Traveling with children? There are designated play areas located throughout the airport to keep them entertained.

Special-needs services are available upon request, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms.

For banking needs, there is a full-service ATM located in the terminal.

In case of a medical emergency, there is a medical clinic located on the airport grounds.

Flight Status Info

As a traveler, it's essential to stay updated on the status of your flight to avoid any inconvenience. At Knoxville Airport, there are several ways to get flight status information.

One way is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, arrivals, and gate information. Passengers can easily find their flight number on the display and check the status of their flight.

Another way to stay informed is by using airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own apps that allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. These alerts can be sent via text, email, or push notifications, ensuring that passengers are always up-to-date on their flight status.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at TYS by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

TYS Airport is a regional airport located in Alcoa, Tennessee, United States. It serves the Knoxville metropolitan area and is the third busiest airport in the state of Tennessee.

The airport has one main terminal building with 14 gates and handles an average of 8,000 passengers daily. On average, there are 80 daily flights from TYS, with the top airlines being Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines.

TYS serves 23 destinations on a regular basis, with the top 5 destinations being Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago O'Hare, and Orlando. The airport also serves as a hub for Allegiant Air, a low-cost carrier that operates flights to leisure destinations across the United States.

Airport History

The airport, located in Alcoa, Tennessee, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1927: The airport was established as a private airfield by Charles McGhee and named McGhee Tyson Airport in honor of McGhee's two sons who died in World War I.
  • 1930s: The airport was used for military training during World War II.
  • 1950s: The airport underwent major renovations and expansions, including the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
  • 1980s: The airport became a hub for regional airlines and saw a significant increase in passenger traffic.
  • 1990s: The airport was renamed Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport to reflect its location in Knoxville, Tennessee.
  • 2000s: The airport continued to expand and modernize, with the addition of new gates, a parking garage, and a new air traffic control tower.
  • 2010s: The airport saw a record number of passengers and added new nonstop flights to several destinations.
  • 2020: The airport implemented new safety measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including enhanced cleaning protocols and mandatory face coverings for all passengers and employees.

Today, Knoxville Airport is a bustling transportation hub that serves millions of passengers each year, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: TYS
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 865-342-3000
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: McGhee Tyson Airport, 2055 Alcoa Highway, Alcoa, TN 37701, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).