The 3 Closest Airports to great smoky mountains

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Here’s a guide to the closest airports to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

The 3 Closest Airports to Great Smoky Mountains

Planning a trip to the stunning Great Smoky Mountains? Getting there is easier than ever with several airports within a reasonable distance. Here’s a look at the three closest options, considering both proximity and convenience.

1. McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Introduction

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is the closest major airport to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s located just south of Knoxville, Tennessee, and offers a good selection of airlines and services.

  • Distance to Great Smoky Mountains: Approximately 30-45 miles (depending on destination within the park)

  • Address: 2055 Alcoa Hwy, Alcoa, TN 37701

  • Pros: Relatively close, good selection of airlines, car rental options, various services, good infrastructure.

  • Cons: Can be busy, limited direct flight options to some destinations.

  • Airlines: Allegiant, American, Breeze, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, United.

  • Car Rental: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Dollar, Thrifty.

  • Official Website: https://flyknoxville.com/

  • Phone: (865) 342-3000

  • Rating: 4.0 stars

2. Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)

Introduction

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is a convenient option located in North Carolina, closer to the southern part of the Great Smoky Mountains. AVL offers increased opportunities for the visitors planning road trips through the Blue Ridge Mountains.

  • Distance to Great Smoky Mountains: Approximately 45-60 miles (depending on destination within the park)

  • Address: 61 Terminal Dr, Fletcher, NC 28732

  • Pros: Easy to navigate, scenic views, good access to the southern part of the park, growing airline options.

  • Cons: Fewer flight options compared to larger airports, parking can be limited during peak times.

  • Airlines: Allegiant, American, Avelo, Delta, Frontier, Sun Country, United.

  • Car Rental: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Dollar, Thrifty.

  • Official Website: https://flyavl.com/

  • Phone: (828) 209-3200

  • Rating: 4.2 stars

3. Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT)

Introduction

Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT) is a small, general aviation airport. It’s the closest in proximity to the national park, it is not the best option for commercial flights.

  • Distance to Great Smoky Mountains: Located within the park vicinity.

  • Address: 165 Airport Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862

  • Pros: Situated inside the National Park, offering great panoramic view for private aviation.

  • Cons: Limited services, small size, doesn’t offer commercial flights.

  • Airlines: None.

  • Car Rental: No Car rental options.

  • Official Website: Unavailable

  • Phone: (865) 429-4330

  • Rating: 3.0 stars

Conclusion

The Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT) is the closest to the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. However, since GKT doesn’t provide commercial flights, McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is the best option for visitors needing good airline services and a close distance to the National Park.

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