what airport is near gatlinburg tn

2 min read 26-12-2024

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a popular vacation destination nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, doesn't have its own airport. However, several airports offer convenient access to this beautiful area. Choosing the right airport depends on your priorities – flight cost, travel time, and rental car preference. This guide breaks down your options for flying into the Gatlinburg area.

Closest Airports to Gatlinburg

The closest major airport to Gatlinburg is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, Tennessee. It's the most frequently chosen option for its relatively short driving distance and wide range of flight options.

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, TN

Distance: Approximately 40-50 miles (1 hour to 1.5 hours drive) from Gatlinburg.
Airlines: Serves numerous major airlines offering a variety of flight choices and often competitive prices.
Rental Cars: Multiple rental car agencies are available directly at the airport, making transportation to Gatlinburg seamless.
Transportation Options: Besides rental cars, shuttle services and taxis are readily available at TYS for transport to Gatlinburg.

Other Airport Options Further Away

While TYS is the most convenient, several other airports could be considered, particularly if you find significantly cheaper flights:

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) in Asheville, NC

Distance: Approximately 60-70 miles (1.5 to 2-hour drive) from Gatlinburg.
Airlines: Serves a decent selection of airlines, though potentially fewer than TYS.
Scenery: The drive from AVL offers scenic mountain views.

Other Airports

While further away, airports like Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in Charlotte, NC, or Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) in Atlanta, GA, offer more flight options and potentially lower fares. However, be prepared for a considerably longer drive to Gatlinburg (3-4+ hours).

Choosing the Right Airport for Your Trip

Consider these factors when selecting your airport:

Budget: Weigh the cost of airfare against the cost of rental car and additional travel time. Sometimes, a longer drive from a cheaper airport will save money overall.
Travel Time: Account for driving time when planning your trip. Factor in potential traffic delays, particularly during peak seasons.
Flight Options: Check flight availability and prices from various airports to ensure you find a suitable flight that matches your schedule and budget.

Tips for Getting to Gatlinburg from the Airport

Pre-book your rental car: This is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
Consider a shuttle service: For a hassle-free trip, pre-book a shuttle directly to your Gatlinburg accommodation.
Check traffic conditions: Before you leave the airport, check real-time traffic to estimate your travel time.

By carefully considering your options and planning ahead, you'll find the perfect airport to begin your Smoky Mountain adventure in Gatlinburg! Enjoy your trip!