Traveling With Prepaid Cards: Tys Airport's Offerings

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for travellers. These include free Wi-Fi, charging stations, a business centre, dining options, retail stores, a children's play area, and pet relief areas. Additionally, the airport provides ATM services and a lost and found department. While the airport does not offer currency exchange services, it does provide parking options with an automated pay station that accepts cash and credit cards. Prepaid parking permits are also available for purchase online or at the airport for discounted rates.

Prepaid parking permits

There are a variety of parking options available at the airport, but all of them require payment. Off-site parking is typically less expensive but may require a shuttle bus to get to the terminal. Long-term parking rates are generally cheaper than short-term, but for longer stays, the cost of a shuttle service may need to be considered.

McGhee Tyson Airport is located in Alcoa, Tennessee, just south of Knoxville. It is a moderately busy regional airport serving the greater Knoxville area and parts of the Great Smoky Mountains region. The airport has been undergoing expansions and improvements to accommodate growing passenger traffic, including enhancements to its terminal, parking facilities, and service offerings.

In addition to parking, the airport offers various amenities such as free Wi-Fi, charging stations, a business centre, dining options, retail stores, a children's play area, and pet relief areas.

Payment methods for parking

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) offers a variety of parking options, including short-term, long-term, economy, garage, and valet parking. The airport accepts various payment methods for parking, providing convenience and flexibility to travellers. Here is an overview of the payment methods accepted at TYS Airport:

Cash and Credit Cards

The airport accommodates various payment methods for parking, including cash and credit cards. The parking area at McGhee Tyson Airport is equipped with an automated pay station that accepts these payment methods, making it convenient for travellers to securely pay for their parking. This option is ideal for those who prefer traditional payment methods or may not have access to other forms of payment.

Prepaid Parking Permits

For travellers who wish to secure discounted rates, TYS Airport offers the option to purchase prepaid parking permits. These permits can be conveniently bought online or directly at the airport. By purchasing a prepaid permit, travellers can benefit from reduced parking rates compared to the standard daily rates. This option is advantageous for those who plan ahead and want to save money on their parking expenses.

Online Payment Options

In addition to on-site payment methods, TYS Airport may also offer online payment options through their website or mobile application. These options may include paying for parking in advance or upon return. By providing online payment facilities, the airport enhances the convenience and accessibility of the parking experience for travellers.

Shuttle Service Considerations

When considering off-site parking options, it is worth noting that some providers, like Parkobility, offer long-term parking with a shuttle service to and from the airport. These services often require separate payments, so travellers should factor in the additional cost when choosing this type of parking. Comparing rates and considering the duration of their stay can help travellers make informed decisions about their parking choices.

Free Parking Options

TYS Airport also provides free parking options for specific scenarios. The Phone & Wait Lot, located behind the Airport Hilton, allows individuals to wait with their vehicles while awaiting the arrival of their guests. Additionally, there is a free parking lot available for quick pick-ups, providing convenience for those who need to briefly stop at the airport.

On-site vs off-site parking

When it comes to parking at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), travellers have a few options to choose from, including on-site and off-site parking. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

On-site parking at TYS is conveniently located near the terminal building, offering both short-term and long-term parking options. The daily rate for on-site parking is $14, and you can pay with cash or credit card upon your return. On-site parking provides the convenience of a short walk or elevator ride to your terminal, making it a great option if you're in a hurry or travelling with companions. Additionally, on-site parking lots offer disability parking and are generally safer due to their enclosed structure. They also have vigilant security measures, including floodlights, surveillance cameras, and hired security personnel. However, on busy days, finding an available spot in the cramped on-site parking lot can be stressful and time-consuming.

Off-site parking, on the other hand, is typically located away from the airport grounds and offers a set fee for parking and shuttle services to and from the airport. Off-site parking is generally more affordable than on-site parking, as companies operating these lots have lower overhead costs. Additionally, off-site parking lots often provide the convenience of reserving a spot in advance, ensuring you don't have to worry about finding a parking space upon your arrival at the airport. However, off-site parking may require navigating through shuttle services, adding time to your commute.

Both options have their advantages, and it's important to consider your specific needs when making a decision. If proximity to the terminal and speed are your top priorities, on-site parking might be the better choice. On the other hand, if affordability and the assurance of a reserved spot are more important to you, off-site parking could be the preferred option. Additionally, TYS offers valet parking for a fee of $22 per day, which can be convenient if you're running late or have your hands full.

When it comes to payment methods, TYS offers flexibility. You can pay for on-site parking with cash or credit card, and you can even purchase a prepaid parking permit online or at the airport for discounted rates. This allows you to secure your parking spot in advance and potentially save money.

Long-term parking rates

Long-term parking at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is available in the economy lot, a short distance from the terminal building. The long-term parking lot is a ten-minute walk to the airport terminal building. This lot also offers covered, garage parking with a ceiling clearance of 7' 10".

There are a few options for long-term parking rates at TYS. The standard rate for economy parking is $11 per day. Parkobility offers daily rates from $5.99 for long-term parking, with prices starting from $8.50 per day. McGhee Tyson Parking is another option, priced at $14 a day.

It is worth noting that off-site parking is usually less expensive than on-site parking, but may require a shuttle bus to get to the terminal. Additionally, some airports offer discount programs for frequent flyers. Covered parking can also be a good option to protect your car from the weather.

Additional airport amenities

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) offers a range of amenities to ensure a seamless and accommodating experience for all travellers. The airport is committed to providing exceptional services, including for those with accessibility and mobility requirements.

For travellers with mobility issues, wheelchair assistance can be arranged directly through the airline, and it is recommended to make these requests in advance. The airport also has customer service representatives available for additional assistance from 5 am to 7 pm. Accessible parking spaces are available in all parking lots, and individuals with state-issued parking placards, license plates, or decals can park in these designated spots at the standard daily parking rate.

The airport offers a variety of parking options, including short-term and long-term parking, both on-site and off-site. On-site parking rates vary depending on the location and duration of parking, with hourly, daily, and long-term options available. Off-site parking is usually less expensive but may require a shuttle service to and from the airport. Prepaid parking permits are also available for purchase online or at the airport for discounted rates.

TYS provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, along with multiple plug-in stations for charging devices. ATMs are located before and after the TSA Security Checkpoint, and food concessions and retail options are available beyond the checkpoint. A Mamava Lactation Pod and family restrooms are also located on the concourse near Gates 2 and 7.

The airport is currently undergoing a decade-long growth and development plan called "Flight Plan", which includes parking garage expansion, gate and concourse expansion, and other projects to enhance the passenger experience and accommodate future growth.

Frequently asked questions