McGhee Tyson airport (TYS)

McGhee Tyson Airport (IATA: TYS, ICAO: KTYS) serves as a vital gateway to the city of Knoxville, Tennessee, and its surrounding regions. Nestled just 12 miles south of downtown Knoxville, in Alcoa, Tennessee, this regional airport plays a crucial role in connecting East Tennessee to numerous domestic destinations. Named after Charles McGhee Tyson, a World War I aviator from Knoxville, the airport has evolved significantly since its inception in 1937, adapting to the needs of modern aviation and ensuring top-tier services for its users.

Primarily a domestic airport, McGhee Tyson Airport covers an area of approximately 2,250 acres and boasts two parallel runways that facilitate a smooth flow of air traffic. The airport stands out for its efficiency and passenger-friendly environment, handling millions of travelers annually. In 2019, it saw around 2.5 million passengers passing through its gates, underscoring its importance in the regional transport network. It accommodates a variety of carriers including major airlines like American, Delta, United, and Allegiant Air, offering regular flights to key hubs across the United States.

Besides passenger services, McGhee Tyson is home to the Tennessee Air National Guard's 134th Air Refueling Wing and contributes significantly to military operations and air mobility. The airport's commitment to safety, convenience, and expansion has made it a cornerstone for air travel in East Tennessee, steadily growing in both infrastructure and service quality to meet the demands of its users.