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$149 Cheap Flights from Knoxville (TYS) to Tampa (TPA)

Popular airlines from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Tampa Intl. Airport (TPA)

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Cheap Flights from Knoxville to Tampa (TYS-TPA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $149 for one-way flights and $227 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Delta
United

Alternative airports near Tampa

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

What you need to know for your flight from McGhee Tyson to Tampa Intl.

Knoxville (TYS) to Tampa (TPA) at a glance

Embark on your next flight from Knoxville (TYS) to Tampa (TPA) with a range of airlines offering competitive options on this domestic short-haul route. Explore the latest deals on flights, whether you prefer full-service or low-cost carriers, to find the itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule. Get ready to discover the vibrant sights and neighborhoods of Tampa as you plan your journey from McGhee Tyson Airport to Tampa International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1 hour 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 $100–$385, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Tampa International Airport (TPA)

Recent traveler bookings reveal the top airlines favored for flights from Knoxville to Tampa, particularly those offering one-stop services. Popular layover options include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with about a 1-hour layover, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) for around a 1-hour layover. These choices allow you to customize your itinerary by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $100 and $380. It represents about 51% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and a total travel time of approximately 4 hours, including layover time.
  • Delta: Another full-service option, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way fares usually ranging from $110 to $470. It constitutes around 43% of the departures for this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and a complete journey time of about 4 hours, factoring in the layover.
  • United: As a full-service carrier, United provides one-stop service with one-way fares typically between $135 and $360. It covers roughly 5% of the departures on this route, with an in-air time of 3 hours and a total journey duration of around 4 hours, including any layovers.
  • Southwest Airlines: Known as a low-cost carrier, Southwest offers one-stop service with one-way fares typically ranging from $170 to $250. It accounts for about 1% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 3 hours and an overall travel time of approximately 4 hours, including layovers.

Travelers flying from Knoxville to Tampa can enhance their journey by upgrading to first class or premium economy. Delta provides exceptional service in both cabins on this route.

Best time to fly from Knoxville (TYS) to Tampa (TPA)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Knoxville to Tampa are January, February, and April, when peak temperatures in Tampa reach up to 73.4°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider June, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 82°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $192. Flight availability peaks in April and August, with approximately 13 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. November has the fewest flights, with approximately 9 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: May usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $192, roughly 15% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: July typically offers an average one-way fare of around $203.
  • Most flight options: April and August have the highest number of flights from Knoxville to Tampa, with approximately 13 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January60.8°F (16.0°C)High11$253
February64.4°F (18.0°C)High12$228
March67.6°F (19.8°C)Average12$246
April73.4°F (23.0°C)High13$219
May78.1°F (25.6°C)Average12$192
June82.0°F (27.8°C)Low11$213
July83.1°F (28.4°C)Average12$203
August83.5°F (28.6°C)Average13$232
September81.3°F (27.4°C)Average11$228
October76.1°F (24.5°C)Low11$230
November68.9°F (20.5°C)Low9$234
December64.9°F (18.3°C)Average11$244

*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 routes from Knoxville (TYS) to Tampa (TPA)

  • Knoxville to St. Petersburg (TYS-PIE): Located roughly 11 miles from Tampa International Airport (TPA), St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) offers convenient access to the area.
  • Gatlinburg to Tampa (GKT-TPA): Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT) is positioned about 26 miles from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), providing a viable travel option.

How to find the best prices for flights from Knoxville (TYS) to Tampa (TPA)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Knoxville to Tampa 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 often found when booking at least two months in advance, though most travelers reserve their flights two to eight weeks ahead. Evening departures from 6 PM to midnight typically offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to noon are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Wednesday usually results in cheaper fares, although 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 Tampa International Airport from McGhee Tyson Airport

Tampa 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. Here's how to reach Tampa efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Tampa, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Tampa International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Tampa 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 Tampa International Airport, Tampa Seaport, a seaport, is located about 9 miles away by car, while Tampa Union Station, a train station, is approximately 9.2 miles away by car, making both easily accessible for travelers heading to these transport hubs.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $149 and cheap return flights from $227 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $175 to $1064, and return flights typically cost between $350 and $1169. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
May is the cheapest month to fly from Knoxville, TN (TYS) to Tampa, FL (TPA), with average round-trip fares around $338. This price is about 11% lower than the average throughout the year, as May often sees a decrease in travel demand. Other economical months to consider are February and August.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
Enter TYS to TPA 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from McGhee Tyson (TYS) to Tampa Intl. (TPA) with return tickets starting from around $349. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
The best times to fly from Knoxville (TYS) to Tampa (TPA) are in May and August. These months offer average return flights around $338, making them the cheapest options. While July is also popular, flying in May or August allows you to enjoy lower fares and a more relaxed travel atmosphere.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
You can find approximately 1 nonstop flights per day from McGhee Tyson (TYS) to Tampa Intl. (TPA). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS) to Tampa, FL (TPA) usually leaves at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in March, giving you a great start to your trip to Tampa. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Knoxville, TN (TYS) to Tampa, FL (TPA) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 26% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, Delta and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Tampa with plenty of time to enjoy the day ahead.
How long does it take to fly from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
Direct flights from TYS to TPA usually take about 1 hour 50 minutes, traveling roughly 547 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 4 hours to your journey. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
You can fly first class between TYS and TPA. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa from McGhee Tyson (TYS)?
If you're planning to travel to Tampa from McGhee Tyson (TYS), you can fly into Tampa Intl. (TPA) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD), George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL) before reaching Tampa. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
If you booked your Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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
Tampa Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$227
Distance
547 mi

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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