San Francisco (SFO) to Knoxville (TYS) at a glance

Travel between San Francisco (SFO) and Knoxville (TYS) with a range of airlines offering convenient options on this domestic short-haul route. Compare both full-service and budget carriers to discover the itinerary that aligns with your budget and travel schedule as you plan your visit to Knoxville's renowned attractions and neighborhoods. Find essential details about flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS).

• Fastest flight duration: around 7 hours non-stop
• Route distance: roughly 2,100 miles (3,380 km)
• Flights per week: around 13 departures on average
• Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $140–$485, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from San Francisco to Knoxville, favored for their one-stop and non-stop options. Popular layover choices include Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT), and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), each featuring approximately a 1 hour and 15 minute layover. These selections provide you with the flexibility to compare prices, total travel times, and cabin classes to help you find the ideal itinerary for your trip.

• American Airlines: This full-service airline provides both one-stop and multi-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $155 and $515. It represents about 52% of the flights on this route, offering a standard in-flight duration of 5 hours and 45 minutes, totaling around 7 hours and 15 minutes for the entire journey.
• United: As a full-service carrier, United offers non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way fares typically ranging from $155 to $630. It makes up roughly 22% of the departures on this route, with a standard 5-hour and 45-minute flight time, leading to a total travel duration of approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes.
• Delta: Another full-service option, Delta specializes in one-stop services, with one-way fares usually between $155 and $565. This airline accounts for about 19% of the departures on this route, featuring 5 hours and 45 minutes of in-flight time, resulting in a total travel time of around 7 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
• Frontier Airlines: A budget-friendly carrier, Frontier offers one-stop flights with one-way fares that typically range from $140 to $340. It constitutes about 8% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 5 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total journey time of approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in layovers.

Travelers flying from San Francisco to Knoxville have the option to upgrade their flights. Top airlines include Delta, offering both first class and premium economy service; United, which features first class; and American Airlines, also providing first class service.

Best time to fly from San Francisco (SFO) to Knoxville (TYS)

The most popular months for travelers flying from San Francisco to Knoxville are March, April, and July, when peak temperatures in Knoxville reach up to 77°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider February, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 42.4°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $233). Flight availability peaks in September, with approximately 17 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. December has the fewest flights, with approximately 9 flights per week.

• Cheapest time to fly: February usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $233, roughly 19% cheaper than the yearly average.
• Another budget-friendly time to fly: August typically offers an average one-way fare of around $248.
• Most flight options: September has the highest number of flights from San Francisco to Knoxville, with approximately 17 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.

Month	Temperature	Demand	Weekly Flights	Average one-way Fare
January	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Average	10	$282
February	42.4°F (5.8°C)	Moderately Low	10	$233
March	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Moderately High	13	$330
April	57.6°F (14.2°C)	Moderately High	14	$285
May	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Average	16	$294
June	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Average	15	$286
July	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Moderately High	14	$267
August	75.7°F (24.3°C)	Average	15	$248
September	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Average	17	$267
October	59.5°F (15.3°C)	Average	14	$390
November	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Moderately Low	12	$292
December	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Moderately Low	9	$302

*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 San Francisco (SFO) to Knoxville (TYS)

• San Francisco to Chattanooga (SFO-CHA): Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) is located approximately 86 miles from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). One-way economy tickets for this journey generally fall between $140 and $495, influenced by the time of year and how early you book. This route is primarily served by one-stop flights, with common layover points at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Major airlines operating on this route include American Airlines and Delta. Additionally, first-class service is available for travelers seeking an upgraded experience.

How to find the best prices for flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Knoxville (TYS)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from San Francisco to Knoxville 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 typically found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures between 5 a.m. and 12 p.m. usually offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Thursday provides both cheaper prices and is the most favored 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.* Find Knoxville hotel and flight deals.
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 McGhee Tyson Airport from San Francisco International Airport

Knoxville welcomes travelers from San Francisco with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Knoxville city center is approximately a 20-minute drive (covering about 15 miles) from McGhee Tyson Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Knoxville efficiently:

• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Knoxville, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
• Car rental: Renting a car from McGhee Tyson Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at McGhee Tyson 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.