A church with two spires, a statue in the foreground, and palm trees.

$144 Cheap Flights from Knoxville (TYS) to New Orleans (MSY)

Popular airlines from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl. Airport (MSY)

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Cheap Flights from Knoxville to New Orleans (TYS-MSY)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $144 for one-way flights and $287 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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

Alternative airports near New Orleans

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

Find the cheapest month to fly from Knoxville (TYS) to New Orleans (MSY)

September is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $186 - $356 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from McGhee Tyson to Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.

Knoxville (TYS) to New Orleans (MSY) at a glance

Travel from Knoxville (TYS) to New Orleans (MSY) with a selection of airlines catering to this domestic short-haul route. Explore various options from both full-service and budget carriers to find the flight that aligns with your schedule and budget. As you plan your visit to experience the vibrant sights and neighborhoods of New Orleans, be sure to check important details for flights departing from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3h 15m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 500 miles (800 km)
  • Flights per week: around 12 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $115–$450, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)

According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines flying from Knoxville to New Orleans are often chosen for their one-stop services, featuring popular layover options at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with an average layover time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) at roughly 1 hour, and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with a 1 hour and 15-minute layover. This allows travelers to customize their itineraries by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop services, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $115 and $405. It dominates the route with around 41% of departures, offering an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes, culminating in a total travel time of approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover time.
  • Delta: Another full-service option, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way fares usually between $125 and $450. Representing about 37% of the departures on this route, it features an in-flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, leading to a total journey time of roughly 4 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in the layover.
  • United: This full-service carrier also provides one-stop service, with one-way fares that typically range from $115 to $450. United accounts for roughly 14% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes and a total travel time of about 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover time.
  • Southwest Airlines: As a budget-friendly airline, Southwest offers one-stop services with one-way fares generally between $135 and $345. It covers around 8% of the departures for this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, leading to a total journey time of approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover.

Travelers flying from Knoxville to New Orleans have the option to enhance their experience with flight upgrades. Delta provides first-class and premium economy service, while American Airlines offers first-class seating.

Best time to fly from Knoxville (TYS) to New Orleans (MSY)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Knoxville to New Orleans are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in New Orleans reach up to 69.8°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 80.6°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $205). Flight availability peaks in February, April, and October, with approximately 14 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. June and August have the fewest flights, with approximately 9 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $205, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: May typically offers an average one-way fare of around $218.
  • Most flight options: February, April, and October have the highest number of flights from Knoxville to New Orleans, 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
January54.9°F (12.7°C)Average11$230
February58.6°F (14.8°C)High14$234
March64.6°F (18.1°C)High12$251
April69.8°F (21.0°C)High14$241
May76.6°F (24.8°C)Average11$218
June82.6°F (28.1°C)Low9$244
July83.5°F (28.6°C)Average10$243
August83.8°F (28.8°C)Low9$233
September80.6°F (27.0°C)Low10$205
October72.9°F (22.7°C)Average14$232
November63.3°F (17.4°C)Average13$228
December58.6°F (14.8°C)Average13$228

*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 Knoxville (TYS) to New Orleans (MSY)

  • Gatlinburg to New Orleans (GKT-MSY): Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT) is located approximately 26 miles from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS).

How to find the best prices for flights from Knoxville (TYS) to New Orleans (MSY)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Knoxville to New Orleans 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 available when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Evening departures (6 PM to 12 AM) often provide lower prices, although morning flights (5 AM to 12 PM) are more popular. Additionally, flying on Saturday typically offers cheaper rates, 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 Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport from McGhee Tyson Airport

New Orleans welcomes travelers from Knoxville with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, McGhee Tyson Airport is roughly a 20-minute drive (covering about 15 miles) from central Knoxville. New Orleans city center is approximately a 20-minute drive (covering about 14 miles) from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach New Orleans efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in New Orleans, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Louis Armstrong New Orleans 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 Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, South Carrollton at Saint Charles Stop, a metro station, is located about 8 miles away, providing convenient access to the city.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $144 and cheap return flights from $287 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $170 and $629, and return flights often range between $329 and $965. 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.)?
August is typically the cheapest month to fly from Knoxville, TN (TYS) to New Orleans, LA (MSY), with average return fares around $337. This is about 11% lower than the average price throughout the year, as demand tends to drop during the summer heat. Other cheap months to fly from Knoxville to New Orleans include January and September.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.)?
Enter TYS to MSY and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.)?
Southwest Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Knoxville (TYS) to New Orleans (MSY) with a layover in Nashville Intl. (BNA), starting from around $273. 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.)?
For your trip from Knoxville (TYS) to New Orleans (MSY), August and September are the best months to fly. In August, return flights average about $337, which is quite economical. September is also popular, offering a great mix of good weather and lower prices, making it a smart choice for travelers.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.)?
The earliest flight from McGhee Tyson (TYS) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) usually leaves at around 5:00 AM, also operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in March, giving you a great opportunity to enjoy a full day in New Orleans. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 26% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, United and Delta, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in New Orleans with plenty of time to enjoy the day.
How long does it take to fly from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.)?
A flight from TYS to MSY with a layover takes around 5 hours 20 minutes, with the route covering approximately 542 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from TYS to MSY. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans 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 New Orleans from McGhee Tyson (TYS)?
From McGhee Tyson (TYS), you can fly into Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl. (MSY) to reach New Orleans. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Nashville Intl. (BNA), Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT), Orlando Intl. (MCO) before reaching New Orleans. 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.) New Orleans 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.)?
If you booked your Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to New Orleans, LA (MSY-Louis Armstrong New Orleans 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
McGhee Tyson
Destination airport
Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$286
Distance
541 mi

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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