Last Updated on July 25, 2026 by Daniel Globe
Memphis International Airport (MEM) connects the Mid-South with major business hubs, vacation destinations, and airline connecting networks across the United States. Travelers can choose from traditional network airlines, low-cost carriers, leisure-focused airlines, and a regional carrier. Because routes change by season, the most reliable approach is to confirm your travel dates with the airline and MEM’s official flight information.
Quick Answer
Eight passenger airlines currently serve Memphis International Airport: Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Southern Airways Express, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. Most scheduled nonstop flights are domestic. International trips usually require a connection, and routes can change by season, so confirm your exact date on MEM’s official destination list.
Key Takeaways
- MEM’s current passenger-airline roster includes eight carriers.
- American, Delta, Southwest, and United provide access to large connecting networks, while Allegiant, Breeze, and Frontier focus heavily on lower-cost or leisure routes.
- Southern Airways Express operates regional flights from Signature Flight Support rather than the main airline ticketing lobby.
- MEM’s current official nonstop list primarily contains domestic destinations; most international trips require a connection.
- All main airline gates are in the modernized B Concourse, although ticket counters are divided between the B and C ticketing areas.
- Airlines can add, suspend, or operate routes only on selected days or during particular seasons, so always verify the schedule before booking.
Information checked: Airline, destination, and airport-development information in this guide was reviewed on July 25, 2026. Flight schedules remain subject to change.
Airlines That Fly Out of Memphis International Airport
The official MEM airline directory currently lists the following passenger airlines:
| Airline | Carrier type | Representative nonstop destinations |
| Allegiant Air | Low-cost leisure airline | Destin/Fort Walton Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Knoxville, Las Vegas, Orlando Sanford, and St. Petersburg/Clearwater |
| American Airlines | Major network airline | Charlotte, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, New York LaGuardia, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington Reagan |
| Breeze Airways | Low-cost airline | Pensacola, Raleigh-Durham, San Antonio, and Tampa |
| Delta Air Lines | Major network airline | Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis–St. Paul, New York, and Salt Lake City |
| Frontier Airlines | Ultra-low-cost airline | Denver, Orlando International, and Phoenix |
| Southern Airways Express | Regional airline | Harrison and Hot Springs, Arkansas |
| Southwest Airlines | National low-cost airline | Baltimore, Chicago Midway, Dallas Love Field, Denver, Houston Hobby, Las Vegas, Nashville, Orlando, and Tampa |
| United Airlines | Major network airline | Chicago O’Hare, Denver, Houston Intercontinental, and Newark |
This table summarizes destinations displayed by MEM at the time of review. It should not be treated as a permanent flight schedule. Some routes operate only on selected days, during peak travel periods, or for part of the year. Check the airport’s official nonstop destination list and then confirm the flight directly with the airline.
Pro Tip: Compare the total trip cost rather than the advertised base fare. Seat selection, checked bags, carry-on bags, changes, and onboard services can significantly affect the final price, especially on low-cost carriers.
Which airline has the largest connecting network?
American, Delta, and United connect Memphis with several of their major hubs. These routes can provide one-stop access to destinations throughout the United States and abroad. Southwest also offers useful connections through cities such as Baltimore, Chicago Midway, Dallas Love Field, Denver, and Houston Hobby.
No single airline is automatically best for every Memphis traveler. The most useful carrier depends on whether you prioritize a nonstop flight, a lower total fare, frequent departures, loyalty benefits, or an easy onward connection.
Where each airline checks in
- B Ticketing: Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines
- C Ticketing: United Airlines
- Signature Flight Support: Southern Airways Express
After check-in and security, the main airlines use gates in the modernized B Concourse. Southern Airways Express follows a separate process at Signature Flight Support, so passengers should review their booking instructions carefully.
Note: A ticket may display the name or flight number of a codeshare partner such as British Airways, Air France, or Japan Airlines. That does not mean the foreign airline operates a nonstop aircraft from Memphis. Check the line marked “operated by” to identify the actual carrier.
Domestic Nonstop Destinations From MEM
Memphis International Airport offers nonstop access to major airline hubs, large cities, regional communities, and popular vacation areas. Current destinations include cities in the Northeast, Midwest, South, Mountain West, and West Coast.
Major business and connecting hubs
- Atlanta
- Baltimore
- Charlotte
- Chicago O’Hare and Chicago Midway
- Dallas/Fort Worth and Dallas Love Field
- Denver
- Detroit
- Houston Intercontinental and Houston Hobby
- Miami
- Minneapolis–St. Paul
- New York JFK and LaGuardia
- Newark
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Salt Lake City
- Washington Reagan
Leisure and vacation destinations
- Destin/Fort Walton Beach
- Fort Lauderdale
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Orlando International
- Orlando Sanford
- Pensacola
- St. Petersburg/Clearwater
- Tampa
Regional destinations
Southern Airways Express serves Harrison and Hot Springs in Arkansas. Allegiant and Southwest also provide selected shorter regional routes, including Knoxville and Nashville.
Some cities have more than one airport. Before purchasing a ticket, verify the airport code so you understand where you will land. For example, MCO is Orlando International Airport, while SFB is Orlando Sanford International Airport. DFW and DAL serve different parts of the Dallas area, and IAH and HOU are different Houston airports.
International Destinations and Connections From MEM
As of July 25, 2026, MEM’s official scheduled nonstop destination list shows domestic U.S. destinations rather than regular international passenger routes. Most travelers flying from Memphis to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, or the Middle East will connect through another airport.
| International trip | Common connection strategy |
| Canada | Connect through a U.S. hub such as Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Detroit, Houston, New York, or Newark. |
| Mexico and the Caribbean | Look for connections through Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Miami, or another airline hub. |
| Europe | Typical itineraries connect through Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, New York, Newark, Philadelphia, or Washington. |
| Asia and other long-haul regions | Travel usually involves a connection at a large U.S. gateway such as Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Newark, or another major international hub. |
Memphis has supported seasonal international package flights in previous years, including limited Cancun service sold through Vacation Express. However, a route that operated in a previous summer should not be assumed to return automatically.
Warning: Do not rely on an old news announcement or route article when booking. Confirm that the flight is available on your exact travel date and determine whether it is a regular scheduled flight, a seasonal route, or a package-only charter.
How to Choose the Best Airline From Memphis
Start with nonstop availability
A nonstop flight usually reduces travel time and avoids the risk of a missed connection. Search by your destination and date before comparing loyalty programs or advertised fares.
Compare the full fare
Review what the ticket includes. A lower base fare may not include a carry-on bag, checked bag, advance seat assignment, or flexible changes. Add every service you expect to use before comparing airlines.
Consider flight frequency
A route with several daily departures may offer better recovery options after a cancellation than a route that operates only twice a week. This can be especially important for business trips, cruises, weddings, and other time-sensitive travel.
Use loyalty benefits when they provide real value
Frequent-flyer status, airline credit-card benefits, lounge access, free checked bags, and upgrade eligibility can make one carrier more attractive even when its fare is slightly higher.
Review the connection airport
For a one-stop trip, compare the connection length, airport layout, seasonal weather, and number of backup flights. A very short connection may be risky, while an unnecessarily long connection can add several hours to the trip.
Airline and Airport Amenities at MEM
Memphis International Airport’s modernized concourse includes wider walkways, natural light, seating, charging access, dining, retail, and passenger-service facilities.
Wi-Fi and charging
Free Wi-Fi is available in the gate, ticketing, baggage, rental-car, and parking areas. Charging access is available throughout the modernized concourse, including many gate seats and lounge areas.
Dining and shopping
MEM offers national brands and Memphis-themed dining and retail options. Available businesses and operating hours can change, particularly early in the morning or late at night, so travelers with dietary needs may want to check the airport directory before arriving.
Airport lounge
Eligible passengers can use the Delta Sky Club. Access depends on Delta’s current membership, ticket, status, and eligible credit-card rules rather than simply holding any Delta boarding pass.
Families, pets, and nursing travelers
Passenger facilities include family restrooms, children’s areas, nursing rooms, and animal-relief areas. Families should review TSA rules for formula, breast milk, baby food, strollers, and child-restraint equipment before leaving home.
Accessibility services
MEM provides accessible parking, accessible restrooms, hearing-loop technology, wheelchair coordination through airlines, Aira assistance for blind or low-vision passengers, and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. The airport has also introduced GoodMaps indoor navigation. Review the airport’s passenger services and accessibility information or contact the airline in advance when assistance is required.
Tips for Navigating Memphis International Airport
Arrive at least two hours before departure
MEM advises passengers to arrive at least two hours before their scheduled flight. Allow additional time during holidays, severe weather, major local events, road construction, or periods of unusually heavy passenger traffic. Review the airport’s current check-in guidance before traveling.
Check in before reaching the airport
Most airlines allow online or mobile check-in before departure. Passengers without checked baggage can usually proceed to security after obtaining a boarding pass, while those checking luggage must visit the appropriate airline counter or bag-drop point.
Confirm your flight directly with the airline
Airline apps and websites generally provide the fastest updates about delays, cancellations, gate changes, baggage policies, and travel waivers. Third-party booking services may not display operational changes as quickly.
Review identification and security rules
Make sure your identification meets current TSA requirements. Check carry-on and checked luggage for prohibited items, and place medications, identification, valuables, and essential travel documents in an accessible location.
Know the airport layout
Most ticketing takes place in the B area, while United checks in at C. Main airline departures use the B Concourse after security. Southern Airways Express passengers should follow the separate instructions for Signature Flight Support.
Allow for construction-related changes
Terminal and roadway modernization may temporarily change vehicle lanes, pedestrian routes, pickup locations, or entrances. Follow airport signs and check MEM’s website before departure rather than relying on an older terminal map.
Parking and Ground Transportation at MEM
Memphis International Airport provides short-term, long-term, and economy parking. Availability and rates can change, so check the airport’s parking page and live parking status before driving to the terminal.
- Passenger drop-off: Follow current airport signs for the departures and ticketing level.
- Passenger pickup: Use the designated arrivals area after the traveler has collected baggage.
- Cellphone lot: Drivers can wait without circling the terminal until the arriving passenger is ready.
- Ride-app services: Uber and Lyft use designated airport pickup and drop-off areas that may shift during construction.
- Taxis and shuttles: Follow signs for the commercial ground-transportation area.
- Rental cars: Rental-car counters and vehicles are located in the Ground Transportation Center.
Pro Tip: Take a photo of your parking level, row, and nearby elevator before entering the terminal. This makes it much easier to locate your vehicle after a long return trip.
Current and Future Developments at MEM
The B Concourse modernization is no longer a future project. The modernized concourse opened in February 2022 and consolidated the airport’s main airline, restaurant, and retail operations into a brighter and more spacious passenger area.
MEM is now advancing the Terminal Modernization and Seismic Program. Current plans include:
- Expanding and reorganizing ticketing areas
- Improving passenger flow
- Expanding the security checkpoint
- Modernizing baggage claim
- Updating fire protection and seismic safety
- Improving accessibility
- Preparing space for future international-processing facilities
- Reconstructing and improving terminal roadways
Major terminal-building work is expected to begin in 2027, with completion targeted for 2030. Construction schedules can change, so travelers should review the airport’s MEM on the Move project page for current roadway, terminal, and pedestrian updates.
MEM reported 4,751,026 passengers and 6.54 billion pounds of cargo in 2025, showing its combined importance as a regional passenger airport and a global logistics center.
Exploring Memphis Through Its Airport
MEM reflects the city through local food, music, art, and retail. Travelers arriving for Beale Street, Graceland, the National Civil Rights Museum, sporting events, business meetings, or Memphis barbecue can reach central Memphis by rental car, taxi, rideshare, shuttle, or other available ground transportation.
For departing passengers, the airport’s relatively compact passenger layout can make navigation easier than at a large connecting hub. The most important steps are to verify the operating airline, confirm the correct airport and destination code, check current baggage rules, and arrive with enough time for parking, check-in, and security.
Frequently Asked Questions
What airlines fly out of Memphis, Tennessee?
The current passenger airlines at Memphis International Airport are Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Southern Airways Express, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.
Which destinations can I fly to nonstop from Memphis?
MEM offers nonstop flights to major hubs and leisure destinations such as Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Tampa, and Washington. Routes may be seasonal or operate only on selected days.
Are there low-cost airlines at Memphis International Airport?
Yes. Allegiant, Breeze, Frontier, and Southwest offer low-cost or leisure-oriented service from Memphis. Compare baggage, seat, and change costs because the lowest advertised fare may not be the lowest final price.
Are there direct international flights from Memphis?
MEM’s official nonstop list did not show a regularly scheduled international passenger route when this guide was reviewed on July 25, 2026. Most international trips require a connection through another U.S. airport. Limited seasonal or package flights may occasionally be offered.
Does Memphis Airport have seasonal flights?
Yes. Some leisure routes operate only during certain seasons or on selected days of the week. A route offered last year may not return on the same dates, so check the current airline schedule before making hotel or event reservations.
How early should I arrive at MEM?
Memphis International Airport recommends arriving at least two hours before the scheduled departure time. Add more time during holidays, construction, severe weather, or other busy periods.
Do all airlines use the same terminal at Memphis Airport?
The main airlines depart from gates in the B Concourse, but ticketing locations differ. Allegiant, American, Breeze, Delta, Frontier, and Southwest use B Ticketing, while United uses C Ticketing. Southern Airways Express operates through Signature Flight Support.
Sources
- Memphis International Airport: Airlines at MEM — current passenger airlines, ticketing areas, gates, and baggage information
- Memphis International Airport: Nonstop Destinations — current nonstop cities and operating airlines
- Memphis International Airport: Checking In — arrival-time recommendation and check-in guidance
- Memphis International Airport: Passenger Services and Accessibility — wheelchair, accessible parking, hearing-loop, and other assistance information
- Memphis International Airport: MEM on the Move — current terminal and roadway modernization plans
- Memphis International Airport: 2025 Year in Review — passenger, aircraft-operation, and cargo totals
