Flights to Tennessee at a glance

Traveling to Tennessee is easy, whether you're searching for affordable plane tickets or full-service flights. You can compare journey times to find the best option that aligns with your budget and travel plans while you explore iconic attractions. Within and around Tennessee, popular destinations include urban parks, state parks, and lakes that offer outdoor, cultural, and family experiences. Notable sites include The Fairgrounds Nashville, Dollywood, and Broadway, all perfect for family-friendly adventures in the great outdoors.

• Major airports in Tennessee: Nashville International Airport (BNA) serving Nashville; Memphis International Airport (MEM) serving Memphis; McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) serving Knoxville
• Flights per week: 8,700+ flights arriving across Tennessee airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Tennessee: around 55+ carriers

Popular airports in Tennessee

Tennessee offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and romantic getaways, making it a prime destination for travelers seeking family fun and thrilling experiences. The state is accessible through three major airports, facilitating easy access for visitors.

• Nashville International Airport (BNA): Situated in Davidson County, Tennessee, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights, providing connections to over 260 cities across the United States and more than 135 international locales. Depending on the airline and route, travelers can opt for first class, business class, or premium economy seating for enhanced comfort. Major airlines operating from this airport include American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Delta.
• Memphis International Airport (MEM): Found in Shelby County, Tennessee, Memphis International Airport offers both domestic and international services, linking to approximately 185 domestic locations and over 60 international destinations. Passengers can select from first class, business class, or premium economy seating for added relaxation based on the chosen routes and airlines. Key carriers at this airport include American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest Airlines.
• McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS): Located in Blount County, Tennessee, this airport provides services for both domestic and international travel, connecting to around 185 domestic cities and more than 30 international spots. Depending on the airline and routes, travelers can choose to upgrade to first class or premium economy seating for greater comfort. Prominent airlines at McGhee Tyson include American Airlines, Delta, and United.

Top routes to Tennessee

• New York (JFK/LGA) to Nashville (BNA), with one-way tickets available from around $55
• Boston (BOS) to Nashville (BNA), with one-way flights starting at around $70
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Nashville (BNA), with one-way flight options from around $95
• Philadelphia (PHL) to Nashville (BNA), with one-way flights starting at around $50
• Newark (EWR) to Nashville (BNA), with one-way airfare from around $65

Cheapest routes to Tennessee

• Lakeland (LAL) to Nashville (BNA), with cheap one-way fares from around $30
• Wilmington (ILG/ILM) to Nashville (BNA), with low one-way fares from around $35
• Orlando (MCO) to Nashville (BNA), with affordable one-way prices from around $40
• Pensacola (PNS) to Memphis (MEM), with low one-way fares from around $40
• Chicago (ORD/MDW) to Nashville (BNA), with cheap one-way fares from around $45

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

Best time to fly to Tennessee

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Tennessee are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Tennessee can reach up to 58.8°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 70.5°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $196, roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September and May offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $201 to $215, making them good options for flexible travelers.

Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Average one-way Fare
January	37.2°F (2.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	$245
February	42.4°F (5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$226
March	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	$253
April	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	$231
May	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$215
June	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$227
July	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$216
August	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$196
September	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	$201
October	60.8°F (16.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$219
November	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	$216
December	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	$233

*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 Tennessee

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Tennessee 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—stay up to date on fare changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Tennessee hotel and flight deals.
4. Travel during shoulder season-peak travel periods tend to push the flight fares a little higher than usual. Traveling outside of these busy periods can help you find more competitive prices while still being able to enjoy good weather and lesser crowds.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates-if your schedule allows it, try and search for a few different departure and return dates as this may help you find lower fares.
6. Consider economy fares-if you're traveling light and don't need extras like seat selection or additional baggage, opting for a basic economy fare can be a simple way to keep costs down. Just make sure to check what's included in the flight ticket before confirming your booking.
7. Think about luggage—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.
8. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book with Expedia. Make sure to select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking to get more value from your trip.

*For members. Select hotels.

Where to stay in Tennessee

• Pigeon Forge: Nestled in the area of Tennessee, Pigeon Forge is a destination brimming with adventure and family-friendly activities. This vibrant city invites travelers to experience its thrilling amusement parks, including the renowned Dollywood, as well as the Island at Pigeon Forge, a lively tourist precinct perfect for outdoor fun. For those looking to soak in some culture, the Titanic Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. With its stunning natural surroundings and numerous recreational opportunities, Pigeon Forge is an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
• Nashville: Located in the area of Tennessee, Nashville is a bustling metropolis known for its rich musical heritage and vibrant city life. Visitors can explore the lively atmosphere of Broadway, a hotspot for entertainment and dining, while The Fairgrounds Nashville provides family-friendly outdoor experiences. For those interested in education and history, Vanderbilt University stands as a noteworthy historic college. Nashville's blend of shopping, cultural attractions, and sports facilities makes it an exciting destination for families and business travelers seeking a lively urban experience.
• Gatlinburg: Gatlinburg is located in the area of Tennessee and serves as a gateway to the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This charming city is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, offering activities such as hiking and scenic vistas. Attractions like Anakeesta provide family-oriented entertainment amidst beautiful landscapes, while the Gatlinburg Convention Center caters to business needs. The combination of breathtaking scenery and outdoor experiences makes Gatlinburg a must-visit destination for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy thrilling adventures.

Tips for short-haul flights to Tennessee

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

• Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more cost-effective. Make the most of your space by using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating outfits wisely. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Early check in—nearly all airlines allow online check-in at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight. This not only saves you time at the airport but may also enable you to select a preferred seat at no additional charge.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself occupied, download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
• Arrive early—Even for short flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Tennessee

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

• Select your seat in advance—for long-haul flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Many full-service airlines allow you to select your seat for free once online check-in opens, typically 24 to 48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines provide seat selection even earlier, though this may incur an additional fee.
• Arrive early—aim to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your departure for international flights, allowing ample time for check-in, security, and immigration processes.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some 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.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin aligning your body clock by setting your watch and modifying your sleep schedule to correspond with your destination's time zone. Try to either sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival location to help minimize jet lag.
• Dress comfortably—since the journey will be lengthy, opt for loose, comfortable clothing and consider layering, as temperatures in the cabin can fluctuate.
• Stay hydrated—bring a refillable water bottle and make sure to drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated, ensuring you feel your best upon arrival.