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$43 Cheap Flights to Knoxville, IA

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Popular airlines to Knoxville

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How much is the cheapest flight to Knoxville?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $43 for one-way flights and $74 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Allegiant Air
United
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines

Find the cheapest month to fly from Columbus (CMH) to Des Moines (DSM)

From $216 - $382 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight to Knoxville

Flights to Knoxville at a glance

Traveling to Knoxville is easy; you can choose from full-service or budget airlines. Compare travel times and select the option that aligns with your finances and itinerary, allowing you to make the most of your visit to the city’s renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports near Knoxville: Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO), Kirksville Municipal Airport (IRK)
  • Closest airport to Knoxville: Des Moines International Airport, DSM (around 32 miles)
  • Flights per week: 1,950+ flights arriving across Knoxville airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Knoxville: around 15+ carriers

Popular airports near Knoxville

Knoxville is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways, offering stunning scenery and various adventure and sports activities. Travelers can easily reach this destination through three major airports that serve the area, ensuring convenient access to all that Knoxville has to offer.

  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM): Situated in Polk County, Iowa, approximately 32 miles from Knoxville, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, linking travelers to over 175 domestic cities and more than 45 international locations. Major airlines such as American Airlines, United, and Delta operate here, and passengers can opt for first class or premium economy service for enhanced comfort based on their chosen routes.
  • Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO): Located in Black Hawk County, Iowa, about 92 miles from Knoxville, this airport caters to domestic travel with connections to roughly 6 cities nationwide. American Airlines is the primary carrier servicing this airport, making it a convenient choice for regional flights.
  • Kirksville Municipal Airport (IRK): Found in Adair County, Missouri, around 90 miles from Knoxville, this airport focuses on domestic flights. The main airline operating here is Contour Airlines, providing travelers with access to various routes throughout the region.

Top routes to Knoxville

  • Denver (DEN) to Knoxville (DSM), with one-way fares starting at around $45
  • Phoenix (PHX) to Knoxville (DSM), with one-way flight options from around $90
  • Orlando (MCO) to Knoxville (DSM), with one-way fares starting at around $70
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Knoxville (DSM), with one-way tickets available from around $120
  • Seattle (SEA) to Knoxville (ALO/DSM), with one-way flight options from around $140

Cheapest routes to Knoxville

  • Denver (DEN) to Knoxville (DSM), with cheap one-way fares from around $45
  • St. Louis (STL) to Knoxville (DSM), with affordable one-way prices from around $50
  • Chicago (ORD/MDW) to Knoxville (IRK/DSM), with cheap one-way fares from around $60
  • Orlando (MCO) to Knoxville (DSM), with low one-way fares from around $70
  • Houston (IAH/HOU) to Knoxville (DSM), with affordable one-way prices from around $85

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Knoxville

  • American Airlines: Serving both Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) and Des Moines International Airport (DSM), American Airlines comprises about 36% of arrivals in Knoxville. The typical one-way fare is around $280, with a premium cabin option that may include first class depending on the route.
  • United: Operating flights to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), United accounts for approximately 27% of Knoxville's arrivals. The average fare for a one-way ticket is about $300, with first class available as a premium cabin option depending on the route.
  • Delta: Also flying into Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Delta represents roughly 21% of arrivals to Knoxville. The average one-way fare stands at approximately $270, with premium cabin choices that may feature both premium economy and first class, depending on the route.
  • Southwest Airlines: Providing service to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Southwest Airlines makes up around 12% of arrivals in Knoxville. Passengers can expect one-way fares averaging about $250.
  • Frontier Airlines: Connecting to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Frontier Airlines accounts for about 3% of arrivals to Knoxville. It is generally a budget-friendly option, with average one-way fares around $150.

Best time to fly to Knoxville

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Knoxville are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Knoxville can reach up to 50.4°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 66.9°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $227), roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? October, May, and August offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $232 to $248, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January22.1°F (-5.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyModerately High$285
February24.6°F (-4.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverage$272
March39.9°F (4.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$305
April50.4°F (10.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$263
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$247
June71.8°F (22.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$265
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$256
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$248
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$227
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$232
November40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$252
December29.8°F (-1.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately Low$257

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Knoxville

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Knoxville is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Knoxville hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Knoxville flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Knoxville

Knoxville welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Knoxville efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Kirksville Municipal Airport, La Plata Station, a train station, is located about 9.1 miles from the airport and is typically reached by car, providing convenient access for travelers.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Knoxville, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Knoxville is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Knoxville on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around Knoxville

  • Pella: Located 11 miles drive away from Knoxville, Pella is a charming city known for its picturesque scenery and romantic ambiance. Visitors flock to Pella for its delightful outdoor experiences, including activities at Lake Red Rock, where you can enjoy the beach and stunning views. Explore the Historical Village to delve into the area's rich culture, or admire the iconic Vermeer Windmill and Scholte House. Don’t miss Central College, a historic institution that adds to the city’s cultural appeal.
  • Attica: Situated in the area of Knoxville, Attica is a quaint village that offers thrilling sports and adventure experiences. It’s an ideal spot for motorsport enthusiasts, especially with the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame nearby, showcasing the rich history of racing. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the proximity to Lake Red Rock, perfect for romantic escapes and scenic outings. Discover the local flavor at the Historical Village, featuring attractions like the Vermeer Windmill and Scholte House.
  • Harvey: Harvey is located 9 miles drive away from Knoxville and provides a serene setting for outdoor adventures and romantic experiences. With its access to Lake Red Rock, visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery and beach activities. The city also features recreational areas for those seeking adventure. Culture seekers will find the Historical Village and the Vermeer Windmill and Scholte House intriguing, while Central College adds to the area's educational charm.

Tips for short-haul flights to Knoxville

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often the more economical choice. Maximize your packing efficiency by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest garments, and coordinating your outfits. This approach also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself engaged, download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack snacks and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Knoxville

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for ensuring comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow you to select your seat for free once online check-in opens, which is generally 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines provide the option to select seats even earlier than this.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge, if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is usually free and available for use.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and modifying your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Knoxville?
September is the cheapest month to fly to Knoxville. There's less demand then, so you're likely to get a good deal. Planning your trip outside of school breaks and major holidays could also help you save.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Knoxville?
Score cheap flights to Knoxville from Chicago, Denver and Atlanta. These cities typically offer the best fares to this popular destination. But bear in mind that holiday periods, stopovers and demand will also impact rates, so remain flexible and book when you see a bargain.
Which US cities fly direct to Knoxville?
There are 21 US destinations you're able to fly to Knoxville nonstop from. Compare your options by using the "Direct flights only" box on Expedia and pick the ideal starting point for you. Here are a few of the top cities to leave from:
  • Chicago
  • Denver
  • Atlanta
  • Dallas
  • Detroit
How to find a cheap flight to Knoxville?
To snag cheap flights to Knoxville, book well in advance and visit during the off-season months of December and January. Want another helpful tip? Jet off on a Thursday and save around 16% on average compared to those who travel on a Sunday.* Set up price tracking on the Expedia app and we'll update you as soon as your fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Knoxville?
While booking in advance is generally the best way to save money, don't panic if your Knoxville vacation is last minute. It's still possible to find cheap flights to Knoxville, especially if your plans have a little wiggle room. Try changing your travel dates, exploring different ticket options or flying out of another hub.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Knoxville?
Lock in your flight to Knoxville two to four months ahead if you're visiting from an international destination. For domestic travel, the usual timeframe is 28 days in advance. Cheaper fares and a wider variety of departure dates, schedules and seating options are just some of the awesome benefits of booking early.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Knoxville?
You can usually find cheap flights to Knoxville on a Sunday. Travelers can save around 8% on average compared to those who book on a Friday, which is typically the most expensive day for tickets.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Knoxville?
A total of 4 carriers connect 12 airports all over the world to Knoxville. Here are some of the most popular airlines to Knoxville, where Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM) is the chief entry point:
  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • Frontier Airlines
Where do you fly into Knoxville?
If you're flying to Knoxville, the main hub to disembark at is Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM). Another option is to fly to Knoxville via Ottumwa, IA (OTM-Ottumwa Industrial).
How far is the airport from central Knoxville?
You'll be around 30 mi northwest of the center of Knoxville after touching down at Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM).
Can I save money by booking a Knoxville trip package?
Bundle your hotel and flight and you could save hundreds of dollars. Better still, you can add extras like tours and car rentals to your Knoxville flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's simple to organize all your Knoxville travel arrangements in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Knoxville?
You can typically change or cancel your flight to Knoxville within 24 hours of booking. However, keep in mind that some flights are non-refundable. In those cases, you may be issued credit for future flights rather than a direct refund. Make sure you check the airline's terms and conditions in your itinerary for exact details. Use Expedia's "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters during your search to find cheap flights to Knoxville with flexible change policies. For additional information, head to our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

Book with confidence

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Knoxville

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Knoxville on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

September is the cheapest month to fly to Knoxville. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Knoxville. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Knoxville, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Knoxville

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Knoxville in 2026 starts from from $74, while one-way tickets start from from $43. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Knoxville. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Knoxville

Allegiant Air, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, United are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Knoxville. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Knoxville and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Knoxville, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Knoxville. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Knoxville plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Knoxville

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Knoxville.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Knoxville are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Knoxville. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Knoxville for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Knoxville. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Knoxville flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Knoxville. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Knoxville

Travel information

Destination airport
Des Moines Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
DSM
Destination city name
Des Moines
Roundtrip price
$74

Trending flights to Knoxville

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $43 for one-way flights and $74 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines

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