What's the Closest Airport to Pigeon Forge, TN?

 

The Closest Airport to Pigeon Forge: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

 

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is the closest commercial airport to Pigeon Forge, about 47 miles from town. It also works as the closest airport to Gatlinburg, TN, since it sits roughly 46 miles northwest of Gatlinburg. One airport serves both mountain towns, so you can book one flight whichever one you pick as your base.

 

Five airlines fly into TYS: Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier and United. Southwest joined them with service that began in March 2026. That mix of carriers gives you a good range of departure cities and fares to compare before you book.

 

Many travelers searching for an airport near Pigeon Forge find the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT) first. It sits only about 7 miles from Pigeon Forge, and the name makes it sound like the obvious choice. GKT is a general aviation field for private planes. It covers almost 200 acres, holds 50 hangars and more than 100 aircraft, and is home to the Tennessee Museum of Aviation, according to the regional airport details. No airline sells tickets to GKT, so a commercial flight to the Smokies lands at TYS.

 

Getting From the Airport to Your Cabin at Parkside Resort

 

A rental car is the practical way to cover the 47 miles between TYS and Pigeon Forge. It also gives you the freedom to reach the Parkway, the national park and the grocery store on your own schedule once you settle in.

 

Parkside Resort sits just 2.5 miles from the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, so the last leg of your drive is short once you reach town. Our team is on site in person, with a front desk and a concierge team ready to help with local directions and logistics when you arrive. If a long travel day leaves you wanting a simple start to your stay, a quick word with the front desk gets you pointed the right way.

 

Check-in begins at 4:00 p.m., which gives you time to land, pick up your rental car and drive in at a relaxed pace.

 

Other Airports Within Driving Distance

 

Some travelers compare fares at a few airports before they commit. Three other airports sit within a day's drive of Pigeon Forge.

 

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)

 

About 75 miles northeast of Pigeon Forge, AVL suits travelers who want a scenic mountain drive and a different set of flight options.

 

Chattanooga Airport (CHA)

 

CHA is roughly 130 miles away, about a 2.5-hour drive, and it can be a good pick when its fares beat the ones into Knoxville.

 

Nashville International Airport (BNA)

 

Nashville is about 190 miles from Pigeon Forge, around a 3.5-hour drive. Its large number of flights and routes makes it a fit for travelers who find a strong fare and want to turn the drive into part of the trip.

 

Start Planning Your Smoky Mountain Stay

 

Once your flight is booked, the next choice is where to unwind after the drive. Browse our Pigeon Forge cabin rentals to find a cabin that fits your group, from a one bedroom for four guests to a twelve bedroom lodge that sleeps fifty.