A cityscape with a prominent domed building surrounded by modern skyscrapers and lush green areas.

$318 Cheap Flights from Chattanooga (CHA) to Sacramento (SMF)

Popular airlines from Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) to Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF)

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*
  • Book smarter

    Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*
  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our OneKeyCash

Cheap Flights from Chattanooga to Sacramento (CHA-SMF)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $318 for one-way flights and $399 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Delta
United
American Airlines
United
United
Delta
United
United
United

Alternative airports near Sacramento

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Find the cheapest month to fly from Chattanooga (CHA) to Sacramento (SMF)

January is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $308 - $764 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Chattanooga Metropolitan to Sacramento Intl.

Chattanooga (CHA) to Sacramento (SMF) at a glance

Travel between Chattanooga (CHA) and Sacramento (SMF) with a selection of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Discover a range of options for Chattanooga to Sacramento flights, including full-service carriers, to find the itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule. As you prepare to explore the iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods of Sacramento from Chattanooga, gather all the essential details for your journey from Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport to Sacramento International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 6h 15m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 30m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 2,000 miles (3,220 km)
  • Flights per week: around 11 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $150–$465, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Looking at recent travel bookings, here are the top airlines favored by travelers flying from Chattanooga to Sacramento, particularly for one-stop and multi-stop flights. Popular layover options include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL, about 1 hour and 30 minutes), Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW, about 1 hour and 30 minutes), and O'Hare International Airport (ORD, about 1 hour and 15 minutes). This variety allows you to balance factors like price, total travel time, and cabin class to secure the best itinerary for your journey.

  • American Airlines: As a leading full-service airline, American Airlines provides one-stop flights, with one-way prices generally falling between $150 and $485. This carrier handles about 46% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 6 hours and 15 minutes, and a total travel time of around 7 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
  • Delta: This full-service airline also offers convenient one-stop service, with one-way fares typically priced from $150 to $470. Delta accounts for roughly 36% of all departures along this route, featuring an in-flight time of 6 hours and 15 minutes, while the overall journey takes about 7 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
  • United: United is another full-service option with one-stop flights available, offering one-way fares that generally range from $150 to $410. The airline facilitates approximately 18% of the departures for this route, with a flight duration of 6 hours and 15 minutes, and an estimated total trip time of around 7 hours and 45 minutes, including layover periods.

Best time to fly from Chattanooga (CHA) to Sacramento (SMF)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Chattanooga to Sacramento are July, September, and October, when peak temperatures in Sacramento reach up to 77.5°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider February, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 50.5°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $185. Flight availability peaks in July, with approximately 14 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $185, roughly 29% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: September typically offers an average one-way fare of around $205.
  • Most flight options: July has the highest number of flights from Chattanooga to Sacramento, with approximately 14 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January48.6°F (9.2°C)Slightly Low9$313
February50.5°F (10.3°C)Slightly Low9$257
March53.6°F (12.0°C)Average11$311
April59.7°F (15.4°C)Average10$279
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Average11$237
June74.5°F (23.6°C)Slightly Low10$288
July77.5°F (25.3°C)Slightly High14$218
August76.8°F (24.9°C)Average11$185
September74.5°F (23.6°C)Slightly High13$205
October66.4°F (19.1°C)Slightly High11$216
November54.9°F (12.7°C)Average11$324
December48.4°F (9.1°C)Average12$309

*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.

Alternative route from Chattanooga (CHA) to Sacramento (SMF)

  • Knoxville to Sacramento (TYS-SMF): Located approximately 86 miles from Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA), McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) serves as a key departure point. One-way economy tickets for this journey generally range from $125 to $485, influenced by the season and timing of your booking. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights, with common layover spots including Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Major airlines operating on this route are American Airlines and United, with first-class service also available for those seeking enhanced travel comfort.

How to find the best prices for flights from Chattanooga (CHA) to Sacramento (SMF)

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

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking 2 to 8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Departures between 12 PM and 6 PM often offer lower prices and are also the most popular times to fly. Additionally, flying on Saturday typically results in cheaper fares, while Friday remains the busiest travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Sacramento International Airport from Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport

Sacramento welcomes travelers from Chattanooga with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Sacramento efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Sacramento, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Sacramento International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Sacramento International Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From Sacramento International Airport, Sacramento Valley Station, a train station, is located about 9 miles away, while 7th & Richards/Township 9 Station, a metro station, is approximately 8.6 miles from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $318 and cheap return flights from $399 Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $159 and $887, and return flights often range between $413 and $1597. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
September is the cheapest month to fly from Chattanooga (CHA) to Sacramento (SMF), with average round-trip fares around $396. This is about 14% lower than the average price throughout the year, as travel demand typically drops after the summer. Other budget-friendly months to consider are April and August.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Enter CHA to SMF and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Chattanooga Metropolitan (CHA) to Sacramento Intl. (SMF), with round-trip tickets starting from around $926 with a layover in Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. (DFW). Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Chattanooga, TN (CHA) to Sacramento, CA (SMF) is typically in August or September. During these months, you can find return flights at around $396, making it a budget-friendly option. August is popular for travel, while September offers a nice balance of good weather and lower prices, allowing you to enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Sort flights by "Departure (earliest)" on Expedia to find the earliest flight from CHA to SMF. To compare more early flights, use the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
For flights from Chattanooga, TN (CHA) to Sacramento, CA (SMF), the most popular departure times are between 12pm and 3pm. This time window accounts for about 30% of total traffic. Major airlines like United Airlines and American Airlines operate flights during this period. Many travelers prefer this timing as it allows for a relaxed morning before their flight.
How long does it take to fly from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Flights from CHA to SMF with one stop typically take around 8 hours, covering approximately 2,014 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the CHA to SMF route. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Sacramento from Chattanooga Metropolitan (CHA)?
From Chattanooga Metropolitan (CHA), you can fly into Sacramento Intl. (SMF) to reach Sacramento. Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW) before reaching Sacramento. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) Sacramento Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
If you booked your Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Chattanooga Metropolitan
Destination airport
Sacramento Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$398
Distance
2014 mi

Book with confidence

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

Explore a world of travel with Expedia