Planning a trip to the Smokies and wondering what the closest airport to Pigeon Forge or closest airport to Gatlinburg is? You’re not alone! Whether you’re here to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, unwind in a cozy cabin, or enjoy the action-packed attractions in Pigeon Forge, knowing your best flight options is the first step to an easy arrival.
This guide covers the closest airports—big and small airports—and offers everything you need to know about driving distances, transportation, and travel tips for your Smoky Mountain getaway.
Closest Commercial Airport: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
- Distance to Pigeon Forge: ~38 miles
- Distance to Gatlinburg: ~42 miles
- Driving Time: ~55 minutes to 1 hour (depending on traffic)
Located just outside Knoxville in Alcoa, McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is the most popular flight option for reaching both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg quickly and conveniently. This regional airport is the closest commercial airport to the Smoky Mountains and offers a great balance of accessibility and ease.
- Delta
- American Airlines
- United
- Allegiant
- Frontier
You’ll find direct flights from dozens of major cities, plus shorter security lines and a calm atmosphere that many travelers prefer over bigger hubs.
Ground Transportation from TY
- On-site car rentals from major companies
- Uber & Lyft available
- Private shuttles and pre-arranged transportation services
- Local taxi companies
💡 Pro Tip: Book your rental car in advance—especially during peak travel seasons (fall foliage & summer).
Local & Small Airports: Gatlinburg–Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT)
- Location: Sevierville, TN
- Distance to Pigeon Forge: ~7 miles
- Services: General aviation only
If you’re flying privately or through a charter service, Gatlinburg–Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT) is a small airport located just minutes from the action. While it doesn’t offer commercial flights, it’s a popular landing spot for private aircraft and executive charters.
Other Nearby Airport Options
Depending on where you’re coming from, a few other airports offer good flight options for getting to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg:
| Airport | Code | Distance to Pigeon Forge | Driving Time | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asheville Regional Airport | AVL | ~95 miles | ~2 hours | Great for East Coast travelers |
| Tri-Cities Airport | TRI | ~100 miles | ~2 hours | A relaxed, small regional airport |
| Nashville International Airport | BNA | ~210 miles | ~3.5–4 hours | Wide range of flight options |
| Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l | ATL | ~200 miles | ~4 hours | Ideal for international travelers |
| Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport | CHA | ~135 miles | ~2.5 hours | A small airport alternative with growing connectivity |
Bonus: Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA)
CHA is a rising star for those flying into East Tennessee. With fewer crowds and expanding flight options, it's a great alternative if you don’t mind a slightly longer scenic drive to the Smokies.
Don’t Want to Drive? Transportation Options from the Airport
If you’d rather not rent a car, here are your options from TYS and other regional airports:
- Private shuttle services to Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg
- Ride shares (Uber/Lyft) – available at TYS but limited in more rural areas
- Taxi services – may require advance reservation
- Gatlinburg Trolley & Pigeon Forge Fun Time Trolley – great for getting around once you’re here
Best Time to Travel (and Beat the Traffic)
Planning to hike, explore waterfalls, or just take in the scenic views of Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Here’s a quick look at seasonal travel trends:
- Spring (March–May): Blooming wildflowers and mild temps
- Summer (June–August): Peak family vacation season—book early!
- Fall (September–November): Iconic foliage, very popular—expect traffic
- Winter (December–February): Quieter, cozy cabin vibes, holiday lights
🚦 Tip: Fly mid-week to avoid traffic around Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge during weekends and holidays.
Map Overview
Our interactive map shows the airports we list and their distance from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Feel free to zoom in/out and interact with the map.
Start Your Smoky Mountain Stay at Hapey Cabin Rentals
Once you’ve landed, you’re just a scenic drive away from cozy mornings in the mountains, hot tubs with a view, and a peaceful retreat in one of our cabins at Hapey Cabin Rentals. And you’re only about an hour’s drive from downtown Gatlinburg – and Howard’s Restaurant, a creekside steakhouse where you can dive into a classic local meal to kick off your trip.
Whether you’re flying in from a nearby city or across the country, we’ll make sure your journey ends with pure mountain magic. 👉 Explore our cabins and book your perfect stay today!
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