Home » AIRLINE NEWS » United States travelers to benefit from expanded Southwest Airlines network with new Knoxville gateway, competitive West Coast routes, and improved national connectivity
Published on
August 15, 2025
Southwest Airlines’ latest expansion marks a strategic push to strengthen its presence across the United States, with Knoxville emerging as the newest addition to its growing network. By launching nonstop connections to major hubs and popular vacation spots, the airline aims to draw more visitors to East Tennessee while giving local travelers faster, more convenient access to destinations nationwide. This move not only enhances Knoxville’s role as a regional gateway but also supports Southwest’s broader goal of improving connectivity, increasing route flexibility, and staying competitive in key markets.
Southwest Airlines is preparing for a significant network expansion in 2026, unveiling 14 new routes and introducing service to McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) near Knoxville, Tennessee. The addition marks the carrier’s second new city announcement in as many months and underscores its strategy of connecting more regional markets with its busiest hubs.
Knoxville Takes Flight with Southwest
Starting March 5, 2026, Southwest will begin operations at Knoxville with five daily flights to some of the airline’s most popular destinations. Travelers will be able to fly nonstop from TYS to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), enjoy twice-daily service to Nashville International Airport (BNA), and connect with Dallas Love Field (DAL) and Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Knoxville will become Southwest’s third Tennessee airport, joining Nashville and Memphis International Airport (MEM). Its position in the Appalachian region makes it an appealing entry point for both leisure and business travelers. The city offers direct access to the University of Tennessee, Dollywood theme park, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park — attractions that draw millions of visitors each year.
This move also represents a partial return for the carrier. Its former subsidiary, AirTran Airways, previously operated at McGhee Tyson Airport until 2012, before its full integration into Southwest in 2014.
Expanded Service from Key Hubs
In addition to Knoxville’s debut, the Dallas-based airline will enhance its network from major bases including Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), Nashville International Airport (BNA), Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), and San Diego International Airport (SAN).
San Diego will see some of the most significant changes, with seven new daily nonstop routes launching in March 2026. Travelers will gain direct access to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Eugene Airport (EUG), Portland International Airport (PDX), Kahului Airport (OGG) in Maui, and Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) in Mexico.
Two seasonal Saturday-only services will also take off from San Diego — one to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) in Montana and another to Spokane International Airport (GEG) in Washington. These additions will broaden Southwest’s West Coast and leisure travel options just as the airline prepares to move into San Diego’s new Terminal 1, set to open September 23, 2026.
Strengthening Hub-to-Hub Connectivity
Beyond leisure destinations, Southwest is introducing new connecting flights between several of its high-volume operational bases. This includes service from Nashville (BNA) to Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock, from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE), and from Phoenix (PHX) to Tucson International Airport (TUS).
While these specific markets may not currently register high passenger volumes, they will improve network efficiency and expand traveler options for onward connections. Passengers flying between smaller cities and major Southwest hubs will benefit from easier transfers and increased scheduling flexibility.
A Continuing Growth Trend
The latest announcement builds on Southwest’s recent decision to add service to St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, its first entirely new city since 2021. Knoxville now follows as the second in what appears to be a series of network expansions aimed at both domestic and near-international markets.
Looking ahead, the airline has hinted at introducing at least one more new city in the near future, suggesting that its growth trajectory will remain steady into 2026 and beyond. The combination of new leisure routes, competitive responses in key markets, and strategic hub connectors demonstrates Southwest’s intention to strengthen its position across the United States while offering travelers more choice.
Knoxville’s Role in the Bigger Picture
For Knoxville, Southwest’s arrival could significantly boost both inbound tourism and outbound travel convenience. McGhee Tyson Airport’s enhanced connectivity to major U.S. cities will appeal to residents seeking faster, nonstop options, while also attracting visitors eager to explore East Tennessee’s cultural and natural highlights.
The launch also gives Southwest a foothold in a growing regional market with strong ties to leisure travel and university-related demand. Proximity to mountain resorts, hiking trails, and cultural sites adds to the appeal for travelers who may now choose Knoxville as their entry point to the wider Appalachian region.
Final Takeaway
With the Knoxville launch, expanded San Diego presence, and added hub connectors, Southwest Airlines is signaling a clear commitment to broadening its U.S. footprint. By combining competitive positioning with strategic route additions, the airline aims to capture both business and leisure travelers while maintaining the flexible, point-to-point network it is known for.
Southwest Airlines is adding Knoxville to its U.S. network, boosting tourism to East Tennessee while giving residents faster, more direct access to major cities and vacation destinations.
Passengers can expect a wider range of travel options beginning March 2026, with opportunities to explore new destinations and enjoy more direct routes from familiar hubs.
