Planning a trip to the picturesque destinations of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, nestled in the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains? Understanding your airport options is key to a smooth and enjoyable start to your vacation. While you might be searching for airlines flying directly into “Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport,” it’s important to clarify a common point of confusion for travelers.
It’s essential to understand that Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge Airport (KGKT) is not a commercial airport.** This means major airlines like American Airlines, Delta, United, or Allegiant Air do not operate scheduled passenger flights into this airport. KGKT is a general aviation airport primarily serving private aircraft, corporate jets, and aviation enthusiasts. It’s a fantastic facility for those flying privately, but not for commercial airline passengers seeking direct flights.
So, if you’re looking for commercial airlines to fly into the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area, you’ll need to consider nearby commercial airports. The good news is that you have several excellent options, each offering various airlines and ground transportation links to get you to your Smoky Mountain getaway.
Closest Commercial Airport: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
The most convenient and closest commercial airport to both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), located near Knoxville, Tennessee. Just a comfortable drive away, TYS is approximately 46 miles northwest of Gatlinburg and about 41 miles from Pigeon Forge. This proximity makes it the top choice for most visitors to the region.
Airlines Serving McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS):
McGhee Tyson Airport boasts a strong selection of major airlines, providing numerous flight options across the United States. You’ll find services from:
- American Airlines: Offering a wide network of domestic flights.
- Delta Air Lines: Providing extensive connections both domestically and internationally through their hubs.
- United Airlines: Another major carrier with a broad range of US and international destinations.
- Allegiant Air: A budget-friendly option with flights to select cities, often focusing on leisure destinations.
These airlines ensure excellent connectivity to Knoxville from various cities across the country, making your journey to the Smoky Mountains relatively straightforward.
Ground Transportation from TYS to Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge:
Upon arrival at McGhee Tyson Airport, you’ll find a variety of ground transportation choices to reach your final destination in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge:
- Rental Cars: Major rental car companies are readily available at TYS, giving you the freedom to explore the Smoky Mountains at your own pace. This is a popular option for visitors wanting flexibility during their trip.
- Shuttles: Several shuttle services operate from the airport to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, offering a convenient and often cost-effective transfer, especially if you prefer not to drive.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available for immediate transportation.
- Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels and resorts in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer complimentary or paid shuttle services to and from McGhee Tyson Airport. It’s always worth checking with your accommodation to see if this is an option.
Alternative Airports for Smoky Mountain Travel
While McGhee Tyson is the closest and most convenient, you might consider alternative airports depending on flight availability, pricing, or your overall travel plans. Here are a few viable options:
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) in Fletcher, North Carolina, presents another option, particularly if you’re coming from the east or enjoy scenic drives. AVL is located approximately 70 miles northeast of Gatlinburg and 75 miles northeast of Pigeon Forge. While slightly further than TYS, the drive from AVL to the Smoky Mountains is beautiful, taking you through parts of the Pisgah National Forest.
Airlines Serving Asheville Regional Airport (AVL):
AVL is a smaller but well-served airport with a selection of airlines including:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- Allegiant Air
Ground Transportation from AVL: Renting a car is highly recommended when flying into Asheville Regional Airport to reach Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, as it offers the most flexibility for the drive and exploring the region.
Nashville International Airport
Nashville International Airport (BNA)
Nashville International Airport (BNA) in Nashville, Tennessee, is a larger international airport that can be a great alternative, especially for travelers seeking a wider range of flight options or potentially lower fares. BNA is considerably further, about a 3.5-hour drive (roughly 190 miles from Pigeon Forge and 200 miles from Gatlinburg), but it offers more flight choices and airlines due to its size. The drive from Nashville to the Smoky Mountains is also quite scenic, traversing through the heart of Tennessee.
Airlines Serving Nashville International Airport (BNA):
BNA is served by a comprehensive list of airlines, including:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
- And many international carriers
Ground Transportation from BNA: Renting a car is strongly advised from Nashville International Airport due to the distance to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. This allows you to enjoy the scenic drive and explore the Smoky Mountains region at your own pace.
Chattanooga Airport (CHA)
Chattanooga Airport (CHA) in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is another viable alternative. Located about 2.5 hours (or 130 miles) from Pigeon Forge and 140 miles from Gatlinburg, CHA offers a more relaxed airport experience, often with shorter security lines and easier rental car access.
Airlines Serving Chattanooga Airport (CHA):
CHA is served by:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
Ground Transportation from CHA: Similar to Nashville and Asheville, renting a car is the most practical option for traveling from Chattanooga Airport to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, providing flexibility for your Smoky Mountain adventure.
In Conclusion
While no commercial airlines fly directly into Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport, you have several excellent commercial airport options within driving distance. McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville is the closest and most convenient, offering a range of airlines and ground transportation. Asheville (AVL), Nashville (BNA), and Chattanooga (CHA) provide further alternatives, each with its own advantages depending on your travel needs and preferences. Regardless of which airport you choose, your gateway to the stunning Smoky Mountains and the charming towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is easily accessible. Remember to consider flight availability, pricing, and driving distance when making your travel plans to this beautiful region.
