DALLAS, TEXAS – Southwest Airlines is gearing up for a major 2026 expansion, adding McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, Tennessee, to its growing network alongside 14 new routes across the United States. The move marks Southwest’s second new city announcement in just two months and reflects the airline’s continued push to strengthen its footprint in high-demand markets while enhancing connectivity for both leisure and business travelers.
Knoxville Joins Southwest’s Expanding Network
Starting March 5, 2026, Southwest will launch direct service to TYS from Baltimore/Washington International (BWI), Nashville International (BNA), Dallas Love Field (DAL), and Orlando International (MCO). With five daily flights planned for BWI and DAL, the schedule is designed to offer a balance of business-friendly and leisure-oriented options.
This move reintroduces Southwest to Knoxville after an absence dating back to 2014, when service ended following the integration of AirTran Airways. By returning to a market it once served, Southwest aims to capture both returning customers and a growing segment of new travelers in eastern Tennessee.
Knoxville’s location also makes it a gateway to major regional attractions, including the University of Tennessee, Dollywood Theme Park, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making the route a significant boost for regional tourism.
Expanding Hub Strength and Strategic Markets
In addition to Knoxville, Southwest is rolling out new nonstop service from its major hubs, including Seattle (SEA), Eugene (EUG), Portland (PDX), Kahului (OGG), and Puerto Vallarta (PVR) from San Diego International Airport (SAN). The airline will operate seven daily nonstop flights from San Diego, positioning itself to counter increased competition from Alaska Airlines, which has seen its market share at SAN grow by 9% year-over-year compared to Southwest’s 2%.
The expansion coincides with Southwest’s planned move to San Diego’s renovated Terminal 1, opening on September 23, 2025. The upgraded terminal will enhance passenger flow, improve operational efficiency, and provide travelers with a more comfortable pre-flight experience.
Seasonal Routes for Outdoor and Vacation Travel
Southwest’s 2026 strategy also includes seasonal Saturday flights from San Diego to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) and Spokane International Airport (GEG) starting in March. These routes cater to travelers seeking quick getaways to top outdoor destinations, offering easy access to Yellowstone National Park, Montana ski resorts, and scenic Pacific Northwest attractions.
Connector Flights to Enhance Network Flexibility
To strengthen its domestic network, Southwest will add new hub connector routes linking Nashville (BNA) to Little Rock (LIT), Chicago Midway (MDW) to Milwaukee (MKE), and Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) to Tucson (TUS). While these connections may not initially rank among Southwest’s busiest routes, they will enhance network efficiency, allowing passengers to reach more destinations without lengthy layovers.
Maintaining Low-Cost Leadership While Growing
With the addition of Knoxville, Southwest now operates in three Tennessee airports—Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville—broadening its appeal in a state experiencing steady population and tourism growth. The airline continues to focus on maintaining affordable fares while expanding its reach, ensuring it remains competitive in a challenging U.S. aviation market.
In March 2026, Southwest will also debut service to St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands), its first new Caribbean city since 2021, signaling continued growth beyond the continental United States.
Impact on Tourism and Local Economies
Southwest’s expansion into Knoxville is expected to boost tourism in the Appalachian region, where attractions like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the Smokies draw millions of visitors annually. The new routes will also benefit local businesses by improving access for conferences, sporting events, and cultural festivals in East Tennessee.
For San Diego, the expanded network strengthens its position as a West Coast hub for domestic and leisure travel, while Nashville and Chicago gain new regional connectivity that will support both tourism and corporate travel demand.
Looking Ahead
Southwest’s 2026 expansion demonstrates a careful balance between market growth, competitive positioning, and passenger convenience. By combining new destinations like Knoxville with strategic hub enhancements and seasonal vacation routes, the airline is reinforcing its commitment to affordable, flexible travel across the U.S.
Whether it’s a family trip to Orlando, a ski weekend in Montana, or a business meeting in Nashville, Southwest is positioning itself to deliver more options for travelers nationwide. With its low-cost model, extensive route network, and focus on customer-friendly scheduling, Southwest’s latest expansion sets the stage for continued success in one of the world’s most competitive aviation markets.
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