Southwest Airlines is adding another dot to it’s route map with the launch of service to Knoxville, Tennessee. The airline will serve the airport with 5 daily flights to four destinations in the Southwest network.
Southwest Will Begin Flying to Knoxville in March 2026
The Dallas based carrier will launch service from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) as of March 5, 2026. Knoxville will see five daily roundtrips, connecting Knoxville with Nashville (BNA) twice daily, plus daily flights to Baltimore (BWI), Dallas (DAL), and Orlando (MCO).
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee said this about the launch of Southwest service from Knoxville:
“As a top global travel destination and business hub, Tennessee is the ideal location for Southwest Airlines to expand, and we welcome them to Knoxville. We’re honored that Southwest, a leading American company serving millions of travelers each year, will be expanding its reach in the Volunteer State, and we’re grateful for their continued economic investment.”
Howard Vogel, Chairman of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority’s Board of Commissioners, added:
“The addition of Southwest Airlines to our airport is an historic milestone for our community. After years of dedicated pursuit, their arrival at McGhee Tyson Airport represents far more than new flights—it’s another gateway to national connectivity and a powerful boost to our region’s tourism industry. Their addition underscores our commitment to expanding opportunities for the people and businesses we serve. Southwest, welcome to Big Orange Country!”
In the announcement, Southwest, which is the Official Airline of the Southeastern Conference, stated that it is looking forward to taking sports fans to and from events in Knoxville, which is home to the University of Tennessee, and connecting Customers to the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains.
Knoxville is Southwest’s second new destination announcement this summer, following St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Another tropical destination reveal is expected by the end of August.
Summary
Southwest Airlines has just announced its newest destination. The Dallas based carrier will begin flying from Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) beginning March 5, 2026 to four destinations.
Thanks to Blake for the tip!
(Image courtesy Southwest)