McGhee Tyson Airport
McGhee Tyson Airport is the primary commercial gateway to Knoxville, the Great Smoky Mountains, and eastern Tennessee, located 12 miles south of downtown Knoxville in Maryville. TYS offers two runways with the longest at 9,000 feet, accommodating all heavy jets and most VIP-configured airliners. The airport serves travelers to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America's most-visited national park, as well as the University of Tennessee and the emerging Knoxville tech scene. Dedicated FBO facilities provide private terminals. Estimated charter rates to Knoxville via TYS: light jets from $4,000 per hour, mid-size jets from $5,500 per hour, heavy jets from $8,500 per hour.
Transworld Jets Insider Tip
McGhee Tyson is the closest major airport to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge resort destinations, about 45 miles away. For direct Gatlinburg access, our brokers can arrange ground transfers or helicopter transfers for VIP clients. The Dollywood theme park is also a significant private aviation draw during peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can heavy jets land at Knoxville TYS?
Yes. McGhee Tyson Airport's 9,000-foot runway accommodates all heavy jets and most VIP-configured airliners including the Boeing BBJ and Airbus ACJ.
How far is TYS from the Great Smoky Mountains?
McGhee Tyson Airport is approximately 45 miles from Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance, typically a 60 to 75 minute drive. It's the closest major airport to this popular destination.
Why fly private to Knoxville Maryville Tys?
Private aviation offers the fastest, most flexible access to Knoxville Maryville Tys, bypassing commercial airline schedules and connections. Our brokers can arrange same-day charter flights to match your exact itinerary.
Aircraft Compatible with McGhee Tyson Airport
Based on the longest runway (10,000 ft), the following aircraft categories can operate here.
Runway Information
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Lighted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05L/23R | 10,000 ft | 150 ft | Con | ✓ Yes |
| 05R/23L | 9,000 ft | 150 ft | Asp | ✓ Yes |
Nearby Alternative Airports
More Airports in Tennessee
Tri-Cities Regional TN/VA Airport
TRI — Blountville
Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (Lovell Field)
CHA — Chattanooga
Crossville Memorial Airport Whitson Field
CSV — Crossville
McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport
MKL — Jackson
Memphis International Airport
MEM — Memphis
Millington-Memphis Airport
NQA — Millington
Nashville International Airport
BNA — Nashville
Smyrna Airport
MQY — Smyrna
Charter a Jet from Knoxville/Maryville
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- IATA Code
- TYS
- ICAO Code
- KTYS
- Elevation
- 981 ft
- Runways
- 2
- Longest Runway
- 10,000 ft
- Location
- Knoxville/Maryville, Tennessee