10 Best Airlines for Direct & Budget-Friendly Flights to Nashville

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Nashville completely stole my heart with its infectious energy and musical soul that pulses through every corner of the city. After countless flights into Music City, I’ve developed strong opinions about which airlines actually deliver a smooth journey versus which ones leave you arriving cranky and in need of emergency caffeine.

While exploring the best places in Nashville, like the vibrant Gulch district and the charming streets of East Nashville, I realized how crucial it is to start your trip on the right note. After analyzing 100+ Nashville flight routes myself, I compiled three months of fare data, onboard amenities, and on-time performance records from FlightStats to identify the best options. From carriers with actual legroom to budget options that won’t force you into connecting flights from hell, I’ve ranked the airlines that will kickstart your Nashville adventure right.

#1 tip to find cheap flights to Nashville

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Now, let’s dive into the 10 best airlines to fly to Nashville in 2025.

1. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL), Minneapolis (MSP), Detroit (DTW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Comfort+, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles – partners with Virgin Atlantic and Air France-KLM
• ☕ Perks: Extensive Nashville network, Sky Club lounges, reliable operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Delta’s “Best Fare Finder” to score lower rates, especially for Tuesday or Wednesday flights. Early morning departures from Atlanta are often cheaper and more punctual.

Flying Delta to Nashville feels effortless, and that’s no accident. As the dominant carrier at BNA, Delta has built a network around the city that makes both direct and connecting flights incredibly convenient. With over 30 daily flights from Atlanta alone, you’ve got options practically every hour, which means booking around events, business trips, or last-minute plans is a lot easier than with most airlines.

The in-flight experience is consistently solid. Main Cabin gives you 31-32 inches of legroom, free seatback entertainment, and snacks that don’t feel like an afterthought. Comfort+ steps it up with extra space and early boarding, pretty helpful when you’re traveling with gear or just want to settle in faster. First Class delivers roomier seats and full meal service on longer routes. Even Basic Economy includes a carry-on, which sets Delta apart from some low-cost rivals.

SkyMiles is easy to earn on frequent routes like these, and flexible travelers can stretch their miles even further thanks to Delta’s dynamic pricing. Roundtrip fares to Nashville often fall between $150 and $350, especially during fare sales that routinely undercut budget airlines.

On the ground, Delta’s Nashville operations are just as dependable. Gates are well-placed, and their check-in and baggage services are typically fast and efficient. Whether you’re flying in from New York, Minneapolis, or a smaller regional airport, the experience feels streamlined.

• Read next: Top Things to Do in Nashville

2. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Charlotte (CLT), Phoenix (PHX), Miami (MIA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Premium Economy, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage – oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Strong hub connections, oneworld partnerships, frequent Nashville service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book 21+ days ahead to unlock American’s “Web Special” fares. These often run $50-100 cheaper than standard prices on the DFW-Nashville route, which operates up to 8 times daily.

American Airlines approaches Nashville like a determined underdog trying to chip away at Delta’s dominance, and honestly, that competitive energy works in travelers’ favor. Their Dallas hub connection to Nashville runs frequently enough to provide real schedule flexibility, often with better pricing than Delta’s premium-positioned direct flights. 

Main Cabin comes with 30-31 inches of legroom, seatback screens on most planes, and complimentary snacks. Premium Economy adds more space and upgraded meals on longer hauls, while First Class provides wide leather seats, priority boarding, and proper meal service. It’s not over-the-top luxury, but it’s more than enough for a comfortable ride.

Operations in Nashville are tight and efficient, with American flights connecting through key hubs that make cross-country trips easier. Dallas flights run often and usually on time, while Charlotte and Phoenix provide additional flexibility for travelers heading east or west. If you’re coming from smaller cities, American’s regional partnerships help fill in the gaps with fewer layovers than you’d expect.

AAdvantage members get access to oneworld redemptions and upgrades, but the real win here is American’s aggressive fare strategy. Roundtrip tickets to Nashville often dip as low as $120 during low-demand windows, especially when booked in advance. Keep an eye on their Web Specials, use the AAdvantage credit card to avoid bag fees, and you might just snag a full-service flight to Music City that’s cheaper than most budget.

• Read next: American Airlines Business Class Guide

3. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Denver (DEN), Houston (IAH), Newark (EWR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Economy, Economy Plus, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus – Star Alliance member with no expiring miles
• ☕ Perks: Chicago hub frequency, ConnectionSaver technology, reliable app
• 🧠 Pro Tip: United’s ORD-Nashville route runs nearly hourly during peak times. Use the “Flexible Dates” feature to shave $40-80 off fares just by adjusting travel by a day.

United plays to its strengths in Nashville, leveraging powerful hub connections (especially through Chicago O’Hare) to offer frequent, efficient service without trying to dominate the airport outright. That strategic distance actually benefits travelers looking for consistent schedules, competitive pricing, and well-timed connections rather than flashy branding or nonstop route bragging rights.

Expect a solid experience in Economy, with 31 inches of legroom and dependable in-seat entertainment. Economy Plus gives much-needed breathing room for longer flights, while First Class comes with wider seats and upgraded dining. This isn’t the most glamorous option, but it’s often one of the most dependable, especially with tech tools like ConnectionSaver helping you avoid missed flights during tight connections.

Chicago-Nashville departures are frequent and well-timed, and the same goes for connections from Denver, Houston, and Newark. These hub-based routes allow for easy West Coast, Southwest, and East Coast access, giving you flexibility without routing through unpredictable airports or less-reliable carriers.

For loyalty program, MileagePlus shines with miles that never expire and solid earning rates on frequently-traveled Nashville routes. United’s sales regularly drop major cities to Nashville for $140-320 roundtrip, which is pretty competitive.

• Read next: United Polaris Business Class Guide

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Recently, I got an email alert on a $125 roundtrip fare from Boston to Nashville with United. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

4. 🇺🇸 Southwest Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas Love Field (DAL), Chicago Midway (MDW), Denver (DEN), Las Vegas (LAS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (one class, various fare types)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Rapid Rewards – points never expire, companion pass available
• ☕ Perks: No change fees, open seating
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Check in exactly 24 hours before departure for better boarding positions, and book their “Wanna Get Away Plus” fares for same-day flight changes

Few airlines have embraced Nashville quite like Southwest. With dozens of nonstop routes and a schedule built around simplicity and convenience, they’ve made Music City a centerpiece of their national network. Instead of funneling travelers through complicated hub systems, Southwest connects the dots directly, which is a huge win for both leisure and business flyers.

Seats in Southwest’s all-Economy cabins come with 32 to 33 inches of legroom, and open seating ensures families or groups can stick together without extra fees. While they’ve recently ended their two free checked bag policy, passengers can still carry on a personal item and a standard carry-on for free. Checked bags now cost $35 for the first and $45 for the second, unless you’re flying Business Select or hold elite status or an eligible credit card.

Nashville is a key city in Southwest’s point-to-point system, and they operate from multiple gates at BNA with impressive frequency. Whether you’re flying to Los Angeles, New York, or regional destinations like Raleigh or Kansas City, chances are there’s a direct Southwest flight that gets you there without backtracking through a hub.

Rapid Rewards is one of the simplest loyalty programs around, with redemptions tied to ticket prices rather than fluctuating award charts. The real standout is the Companion Pass, which allows a designated companion to fly with you for nearly free, something no other U.S. airline offers. During sales, roundtrip fares to Nashville often drop to $99-$250, and their credit cards can help you fast-track your way to perks that make frequent trips even more rewarding.

5. 🇺🇸 JetBlue Airways

• 🏠 Hub: New York JFK (JFK), Boston (BOS), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Los Angeles (LAX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Blue (Economy), Blue Plus, Blue Extra, Mint (Premium)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: TrueBlue – points never expire, family pooling available
• ☕ Perks: Free WiFi, seatback entertainment, decent legroom, quality snacks
• 🧠 Pro Tip: For a premium experience under $600, book Mint service on JetBlue’s NYC or Boston routes to Nashville. Blue Extra is also a solid upgrade with more space and faster boarding.

JetBlue brings their customer-friendly philosophy to Nashville with nonstop flights from their Northeast strongholds, treating Music City travelers to the amenities that should come standard but somehow don’t on most airlines anymore. Their approach focuses on making domestic flying actually pleasant rather than an exercise in corporate cost-cutting, which creates a noticeably different experience when heading to or from Nashville’s honky-tonk scene.

Blue economy starts with 32-34 inches of legroom, significantly more than most carriers’ standard seats, plus seatback entertainment with live TV and free WiFi that actually works at useful speeds. Blue Plus adds a free checked bag and priority boarding, while Blue Extra delivers even more legroom that transforms longer flights into genuinely comfortable experiences. Mint on transcontinental routes offers lie-flat seats and restaurant-quality dining that rivals traditional business class at much lower prices.

TrueBlue remains one of the easiest loyalty programs to understand. Points never expire, and you can combine earnings with family members for faster rewards. JetBlue’s sales often bring roundtrip fares to Nashville down to $120-280, creating real value when paired with better amenities and no hidden fees. 

JetBlue’s Nashville presence continues to grow, with schedules designed to accommodate both weekday business trips and weekend getaways. Their gate areas offer room to breathe, and flight crews often receive high marks for friendliness and attentiveness. Flights from New York and Boston are especially frequent, making last-minute bookings less stressful.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to New York
• You may also like: Hidden Gems in Tennessee

6. 🇺🇸 Alaska Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Seattle-Tacoma (SEA), Portland (PDX), San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main, Premium Class, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Mileage Plan – unique distance-based earning with generous partners
• ☕ Perks: West Coast focus, excellent customer service, generous baggage policies
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Alaska often codeshares with American Airlines on Nashville routes. Book through Alaska to earn full Mileage Plan points and enjoy better customer service while flying the same aircraft.

Alaska Airlines extends their West Coast hospitality to Nashville with seasonal service that showcases why this regional powerhouse has such devoted followers. While other airlines have expanded everywhere and diluted their service, Alaska has maintained their focus on doing fewer things really well, creating flights to Nashville that feel more like visiting friends than dealing with corporate transportation bureaucracy.

Main cabin passengers get a more comfortable ride than expected, with 32 inches of legroom, free snacks and soft drinks, and friendly crews who seem genuinely invested in making the flight enjoyable. Premium Class adds extra legroom and earlier boarding, while First Class upgrades the experience with wider seats, better meals, and personalized service that feels sincere rather than scripted.

Connections through Alaska’s West Coast hubs are smooth and practical, especially for travelers coming from cities like Seattle or Portland. Their punctuality and onboard atmosphere consistently score high marks from flyers who care more about service than flashy branding. Schedules align well with business and leisure travel needs, particularly for those heading to Nashville from the Pacific coast.

Mileage Plan stands out for its distance-based earning and strong redemption value on international partner airlines. Alaska often runs sales that bring roundtrip fares from the West Coast to Nashville into the $250-450 range. 

7. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Club World)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios) – oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: London connections, premium service standards, extensive global network
• 🧠 Pro Tip:  British Airways runs seasonal nonstop flights to Nashville from May to October. 

British Airways adds a polished European touch to the Nashville route, with seasonal service that feels more intentional than routine. Rather than treating the flight like a basic transatlantic hop, BA brings thoughtful service, polished crews, and a sense that the journey matters as much as the destination.

In Economy, you get full meal service, complimentary drinks, and around 31 inches of legroom. It’s actually nothing flashy, but reliably pleasant. Premium Economy adds a big bump in comfort with wider seats and upgraded meals, while Club World Business offers lie-flat beds, better wine, and just enough peace and quiet to forget you’re on a plane.

Avios points stretch surprisingly far on this route, especially if you book during off-peak periods. Roundtrip fares in cash usually hover around $450-750, but redemptions and cardholder perks can bring that even lower. 

This isn’t a route that runs year-round, but when it’s on the schedule (May through October), it’s timed perfectly for festival season and summer travel. Connections through Heathrow open up Europe with minimal effort, especially if you’re planning to tag on destinations like Paris, Rome, or Edinburgh.

• Read next: British Airways First Class Guide
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to London

8. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More – Star Alliance founding member
• ☕ Perks: German efficiency, excellent European connections, premium lounges
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Lufthansa’s “Nashville Explorer” bundles during spring sales. They often include free rail passes or city tours in Frankfurt and start as low as $580 roundtrip with add-ons.

Lufthansa’s Frankfurt-Nashville service feels like it was designed by someone who values peace of mind in air travel. The airline’s trademark precision and consistency make international flights less about surviving the journey and more about actually enjoying it. 

You’ll notice the attention to detail in Economy, where 31-32 inches of legroom and full meal service provide a baseline level of comfort that puts many competitors to shame. Premium Economy goes a step further with added space and upgraded dining, while Business Class offers lie-flat seats and high-touch service. If you’re flying First, expect a quieter cabin, elevated amenities, and the kind of calm you don’t usually associate with airports.

Connections through Frankfurt are where Lufthansa really stands out. This hub is engineered for efficiency, with intuitive navigation, fast transfers, and helpful staff on the ground. Their seasonal Nashville flights typically align with the city’s festival season, making it easy to pair German city breaks with Southern music experiences in a single trip.

Miles & More members can earn and redeem through the entire Star Alliance network, and Lufthansa’s seasonal sales often drop roundtrip fares between Frankfurt and Nashville to $500-800. Booking the “Europe Airpass” also lets you explore additional cities like Hamburg or Prague for just $110 per leg.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Frankfurt
• You may also like: Best Places to Visit in Munich

9. 🇨🇦 Air Canada

• 🏠 Hub: Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), Montreal (YUL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Aeroplan – Star Alliance member with flexible redemptions
• ☕ Perks: Canadian hospitality, strong North American network, efficient operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Air Canada’s free 24-hour stopover in Toronto to explore the city’s food scene and waterfront before heading to Nashville. It’s a no-cost detour that feels like a mini vacation.

If you’re coming from Canada, Air Canada makes reaching Nashville feel like an easy extension of your regular travel routine. The airline’s Toronto hub connects seamlessly with major cities across the country, offering a calm, professional travel experience that contrasts with the chaos of many US-based options.

Onboard, Economy includes 31-32 inches of legroom and complimentary snacks and drinks, a small but welcome reminder that some airlines still value baseline comfort. Premium Economy adds extra room, early boarding, and upgraded meals, while Business Class offers lie-flat seats and thoughtful service with a distinct Canadian touch. The vibe is polished without being overdone.

Toronto Pearson acts as a reliable launch point, with quick connections and efficient operations that reflect Air Canada’s experience at managing high volumes without losing touch of their magic. And whether you’re flying from Vancouver, Calgary, or Halifax, the route to Nashville is smooth and consistent year-round.

Aeroplan remains one of the more flexible points programs in North America, especially with Star Alliance partnerships that open up a global network. Toronto-Nashville flights frequently go on sale for $185-$340 roundtrip, and the best part? They have a stopover program that lets you experience Canada’s largest city without booking a separate ticket. 

10. 🇦🇪 Emirates

• 🏠 Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Emirates Skywards – partnerships with various airlines
• ☕ Perks: Dubai connections, A380 experience, luxury service standards
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Emirates’ Dubai-Nashville route via connecting cities offers their full premium experience for $800-1,200 roundtrip during sales. Use their “My Emirates Pass” for free Dubai activities during stopovers

While Emirates doesn’t fly directly to Nashville, they remain a top-tier option for travelers who value luxury and are open to creative routing. Booking through US gateway cities like New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles and connecting onward with a domestic carrier lets you experience Emirates’ full service at a competitive price. 

Economy on Emirates delivers a generous 32-34 inches of legroom with entertainment systems featuring over 4,000 channels and meal service that rivals many airlines’ premium cabins. Their A380s provide a uniquely spacious and quiet flying experience that makes long international segments genuinely comfortable. Premium Economy offers enhanced space and service, while Business delivers spacious lie-flat beds. First Class creates private suites with shower spas that transform flying into luxury travel.

Dubai International Airport is built to impress, with expansive lounges, luxury shopping, and rest zones that make connections surprisingly pleasant. Long layovers can be turned into full sightseeing opportunities thanks to Emirates’ stopover programs. Even if the trip adds hours, many passengers feel the comfort and service more than make up for it.

For points collectors, Emirates Skywards offers solid earning opportunities, though Emirates’ competitive cash pricing during sales often beats award redemptions. Their promotions can connect major international cities to US gateways for $600-1,000 roundtrip, competitive with direct options while including the Emirates experience. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Airlines for Flying to Nashville

What major Airlines fly into Nashville?

Major airlines like Delta, American, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Alaska, British Airways, Lufthansa, Air Canada, and Emirates fly into Nashville. They connect the city with many places, both in the U.S. and internationally. These airlines offer various services, fitting different budgets and travel needs. Whether you want luxury or something more affordable, there’s a good flight option for you to Nashville.

What airline flies out of Nashville the most?

Southwest Airlines is the airline that operates the most flights out of Nashville. Known for its extensive route network, Southwest Airlines provides frequent and convenient services, making it a key carrier at Nashville International Airport. This prominence is especially notable for travelers seeking various domestic routes. Southwest’s significant presence reflects its commitment to offering accessible and frequent connections, embodying the essence of Best Nashville airline in terms of operational volume and travel convenience from Nashville.

Which Airlines hub in Nashville?

Nashville International Airport (BNA) does not serve as a major hub for any airline. While several airlines operate a significant number of flights from Nashville, including Southwest Airlines, no airline has designated it as a primary hub. This means that while the airport is well-served by various carriers, it’s more of a focus city or a key operation point rather than a central hub in an airline’s network.

What is the cheapest time of year to fly to Nashville?

The cheapest time of year to fly to Nashville is typically during the winter months, excluding the holiday season. January and February often see lower airfare prices. Late fall, excluding Thanksgiving, can also offer more affordable travel options. It’s always a good idea to compare prices and book in advance for the best deals. Keep in mind that prices can vary based on airlines, travel dates, and how early you book your flight.

How far in advance should I book a flight to Nashville?

To secure the best deals on flights to Nashville, it’s recommended to book at least 1 to 3 months in advance for domestic flights and 2 to 6 months ahead for international travel. Prices tend to rise as the travel date approaches, so early booking can lead to significant savings. Keep an eye on fare trends and consider setting alerts for price drops to optimize your booking time.

Is Nashville cheap or expensive?

The cost of visiting Nashville can vary depending on individual travel styles and preferences. While it offers a range of budget-friendly options in terms of accommodation, dining, and activities, certain aspects of the city can be on the pricier side, especially in tourist-heavy areas and for popular events. It’s important to plan and budget accordingly. Overall, Nashville can be affordable with careful planning but can also cater to luxury experiences.

Why are hotels so expensive in Nashville?

Hotels in Nashville can be expensive due to high demand, especially during peak tourism seasons and major events like music festivals. The city’s growing popularity as a travel destination and its reputation as a cultural and music hub contribute to higher accommodation costs. Additionally, limited availability in central locations can drive up prices. For more budget-friendly options, consider booking in advance, staying a bit outside the city center, or traveling during off-peak times.

Concluding Thoughts on Nashville’s Best Airlines

In conclusion, Nashville’s allure, from its rich musical heritage to its vibrant culture, is undeniable. Whether flying for leisure or business, choosing the right airline enhances your journey. From the best Nashville airline options offering luxury to budget-friendly choices, there’s a perfect fit for every traveler.

Remember, the best flight to Nashville depends on your preferences for comfort, price, and convenience. As you plan your trip, keep in mind the tips and insights shared in this guide. Nashville awaits with open arms and a melody that resonates with every visitor. Enjoy your journey to this iconic city, and may it be as memorable as the destination itself.