Tennessee, the Volunteer State, is known for its vibrant music scene, stunning landscapes, and warm Southern hospitality. But did you know it’s also home to bustling airports that keep millions of travellers moving? In 2023, Tennessee's airports boarded 15.7 million passengers, marking a 13.6% increase compared to 2022.
The Top Three Airports in Tennessee
The top three airports in Tennessee handled 95% of the state’s passenger boardings in 2023. Let’s take a closer look at their impressive stats:
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Nashville International Airport (BNA):
Nashville’s airport is the state’s busiest by far, serving 11,227,243 passengers in 2023. That’s 71% of Tennessee's total enplanements, earning it the 28th spot among the busiest airports in the U.S. With its location in Music City, BNA is a vital gateway for both business and leisure travellers. -
Memphis International Airport (MEM):
Known as the world’s busiest cargo airport, MEM is also Tennessee’s second-busiest passenger hub, handling 2,399,876 enplanements in 2023. Memphis's airport is a key link to the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks like Graceland. -
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville:
Serving East Tennessee, TYS welcomed 1,382,197 passengers in 2023. Its convenient location makes it a popular choice for travellers exploring the Great Smoky Mountains or visiting the University of Tennessee.
Airports Beyond the Top Three
While BNA, MEM, and TYS dominate passenger traffic, other airports in Tennessee contribute to the state's connectivity:
- Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA)
- Tri-Cities Airport (TRI), serving Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport
- McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport (MKL) in Jackson
Together, these airports saw 712,265 enplanements in 2023.
Share the Infographic!
This data highlights Tennessee’s growing role in connecting travellers to destinations across the U.S. and beyond. We encourage you to share this infographic to spread the word about air travel in the Volunteer State!
Celebrate Tennessee with Airport Code Merchandise
Whether you’re a proud Tennessean or a frequent traveller to the state, explore the collection of airport code merchandise from YHM Designs featuring BNA, MEM, TYS, and more. From hats to mugs and throw pillows, find the perfect gift for yourself or your loved ones.
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How to Cite
Source: U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Illustration by YHM Designs.