McGhee Tyson Airport serves the city of Knoxville in Tennessee. It handles both domestic and limited international flights, connecting travelers to various parts of the country. The airport covers about 1,200 acres with three main runways for planes of different sizes. Passengers can find rental cars, hotels and dining options on-site or nearby. With a focus on safety and efficiency, the facility offers basic amenities like restrooms, shops and free Wi-Fi. It plays a key role in supporting local businesses and tourism while maintaining straightforward operations for daily travel needs.
| Power Grid: |
120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
US Dollar (USD) £1 ≈ US$1.33 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
The U.S. is highly cashless, with credit and debit cards accepted almost everywhere. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary and expected in the U.S. In restaurants, 15-20% is standard. Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also expect tips, usually around 10-20% depending on the service. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking laws vary by state, but it is generally prohibited in public spaces without a permit. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is restricted in most indoor public spaces and some outdoor areas. Local laws vary. |
| Etiquette: | Greet with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, respect personal space, and avoid discussing politics or income unless invited to share opinions. Politeness and friendliness are appreciated. |
| Thanksgiving (November) |
A major holiday with closures and domestic travel surges. |
|---|---|
| Independence Day (July) |
Expect parades, fireworks, and celebrations nationwide. |
| Christmas (December) |
Markets, festive events, and crowded tourist spots. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber, Lyft, Bolt |
| Helpful links: |
Wikipedia Visa regulations Customs & border control Travel with medicine |
| Other: | The U.S. is known for its diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and regional cuisines. Public transport is efficient in cities but less so in rural areas. Renting a car is recommended for exploring national parks. |
McGhee Tyson Airport serves Knoxville as a key gateway for travelers entering western Tennessee. The facility handles both domestic and limited international flights making it an essential hub for regional connectivity. Passengers find the layout straightforward with clear signage guiding them through security checkpoints baggage claim areas and departure lounges. The airport’s size allows for efficient movement without excessive waiting times during peak hours.
Travelers can access a range of services including car rental counters dining options and currency exchange booths. Many airlines operate from the main terminal providing frequent departures to major cities across the United States. For those unfamiliar with local transit routes public buses connect directly to downtown Knoxville while ride-sharing platforms offer convenient drop-off points near terminals. The airport also features charging stations for electronic devices and quiet zones for passengers needing a moment of calm before boarding.
Ground transportation options extend beyond taxis and rideshares. Parking lots are available on-site with short-term and long-term spaces at varying rates. Bicycle racks and walking paths near the perimeter support cyclists who wish to explore nearby neighborhoods after landing. The airport’s proximity to downtown Knoxville means most visitors reach city centers within twenty minutes by car or public transit depending on traffic conditions.
McGhee Tyson Airport maintains a focus on practicality rather than luxury. Restrooms are clean and well-maintained while free Wi-Fi ensures connectivity throughout the building. Families with children benefit from play areas located near security checkpoints reducing stress during layovers. The staff prioritizes helpfulness responding promptly to questions about flight status baggage policies or local attractions making navigation smoother for first-time visitors.
Located in the Domestic Terminal (B) near Gate 1, the Admirals Club offers a quiet retreat for American Airlines elite and members of the Admirals Club programme. Complimentary snacks, full‑size beverages, high‑speed Wi‑Fi, workstations, and a dedicated lounge area provide comfort during layovers. Day passes are available for US$25 – 35 (£18.69 – 26.17), depending on airline status.
Situated in the International Terminal (A) near Gate 3, the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge serves Star Alliance passengers and Air Canada elite members. Guests enjoy complimentary hot and cold beverages, light snacks, high‑speed Wi‑Fi, workstations, and a quiet environment for relaxation or business. Access is granted to lounge members; day passes cost US$30 – 45 (£22.43 – 33.64).
To Knoxville Downtown:
Take a local bus (Route 10) or rideshare from the airport’s kerbside pickup area to downtown Knoxville, about 15 minutes by car and 30 minutes on public transport. Taxis cost US$12 – 18 (£8.97 – 13.46); rideshares average US$15 (£11.21). Buses run hourly, with tickets around US$3 (£2.24).
To Nashville:
Drive via I‑40 west for about 3 h (≈190 mi) or take a Greyhound bus from the airport’s bus terminal to downtown Nashville. Buses depart roughly every two hours, costing US$20 – 30 (£14.95 – 22.43); driving costs fuel (~US$35 (£26.17)) plus tolls (US$10 (£7.48)). Rideshares to the airport’s car park are available but less economical.
To Atlanta:
Travelling from TYS to Atlanta takes roughly 5 h by car via I‑75 south, covering about 300 mi; fuel costs around US$45 (£33.64) plus tolls (US$15 (£11.21)). Greyhound buses run twice daily, costing US$30 – 40 (£22.43 – 29.90) and taking 6 h. Rideshares are pricey but convenient for short trips.
+1
+1
