Hurricane Helene Impacts Flights at McGhee Tyson Airport
As Hurricane Helene prepares to make landfall, folks in Blount County, Tennessee, are keeping a close eye on the skies and flight schedules at the nearby McGhee Tyson Airport. So far, it appears that only a handful of flights have been canceled, primarily those heading to sunny Florida.
Current Flight Status
According to airport spokesperson Becky Huckaby, travelers should not be too worried just yet. She mentioned that as of Thursday evening, only flights going to Tampa and Clearwater airports have faced cancellations due to the storm. Other flights originating from or arriving in Knoxville have remained largely unaffected, giving a glimmer of hope for those excited to start their weekend journeys.
Check Before You Go
For anyone planning to travel over the next few days, Huckaby strongly advises checking the airline’s app. “If you’re going to be flying over the next 24 to 48 hours as the storm moves through, not just through Florida but throughout the southeast, you want to make sure that you’re downloading the app of the airline that you’re traveling with,” she explained. Instantaneous updates about flight statuses can save you time and reduce stress, especially when storms are in play.
Watch Out for Connections
It’s also wise to keep an eye on connecting flights, even if your final destination is unrelated to the hurricane. “You also want to be looking at the connecting airport that you’re flying through, as well as your final destination,” Huckaby added. “You might not think about it, but your flight to California could definitely be impacted by something if you’re connecting through Atlanta or even Dallas, depending on where the hurricane actually makes land.” So even if you don’t think you’ll be affected by the storm directly, checking all legs of your journey is a smart move.
Stay Informed
To stay fully informed, travelers can also visit the McGhee Tyson Airport’s website for a comprehensive list of delays and cancellations. It’s best to keep this information handy, and remember, notifications about changes can be turned off anytime in your browser settings if they become too overwhelming!
A Calm Before the Storm?
As Hurricane Helene inches closer, travelers are understandably anxious. However, at least for the moment, it seems like the impact at McGhee Tyson has been minimal. Cancellations are limited, and flights are still operating, providing some peace of mind for passengers. The airport staff remains committed to keeping everyone updated and safe during this weather event.
Final Thoughts
In these uncertain times, the best we can do is stay informed and flexible. With a little preparation, we can still make the most of our travel plans while keeping a watchful eye on the weather. Whether you’re flying to Florida or further afield, don’t forget to check those flight statuses and wherever you’re headed, travel safe!
