Chattanooga Airport

Chattanooga Airport, also known as Lovell Field, is not just an air gateway to the scenic city of Chattanooga in the USA, but also a shining example of innovation and sustainability. This compact and modern airport is renowned for being the first in the world to fully meet its energy needs through its own solar farm. Its convenient location and thoughtful infrastructure make it an excellent starting point for traveling around the southeast of the country.

Despite its modest size, Chattanooga Airport offers passengers a high level of comfort and service. Thanks to a single and intuitive terminal, navigating through it takes minimum time, which is particularly appreciated by travelers. Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi, numerous charging stations for gadgets, cozy waiting areas, as well as several cafes and restaurants where one can have a snack before departure.

The airport's main pride is its environmental initiative. An extensive solar farm located directly on the premises generates enough energy to cover all the terminal's needs, making it one of the "greenest" airports in the world. In 2024, a major renovation worth 28 million dollars was completed, which added new boarding gates, a modern business center, and additional rest zones, confirming the airport's commitment to constant development and improvement of service quality.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Chattanooga Airport (CHA).

• Official Website: On the official portal www.flycha.com, you will find flight schedules, information about parking, services, and the latest news.
• Help Desk Phone: For general inquiries, you can call +1 (423) 855-2200.
• Airport Address: 1001 Airport Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421, USA.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the special contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: Follow airport updates on its official pages on popular social networks such as Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost and Found Information:
  • If you left an item on airport property (in the terminal, in the parking lot), contact airport security at +1 (423) 855-2202.
  • For issues related to lost or delayed luggage, you must contact the airline you flew with directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance and consultations, you can use the main airport phone number +1 (423) 855-2200.

Getting to Chattanooga Airport (CHA) from the city center of Chattanooga, located in the state of Tennessee, USA, is quite simple. The airport is located just 15-20 kilometers east of the business district, so the trip rarely takes much time. Passengers have access to several transport options, the choice of which depends on budget, comfort, and the amount of luggage.

The most economical way to get to the airport is public transport. The bus company CARTA (Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority) operates a route passing near the airport. The cost of one trip usually does not exceed $1.50, making this option very affordable. However, it is worth noting that a short walk may be required from the bus stop to the terminal, so this method is best suited for travelers with light luggage. Be sure to check the current schedule and route on the official CARTA website before traveling.

For those who value comfort and speed, the best choice would be taxis or ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft. They are widely available throughout the city and will take you directly to the terminal entrance. A trip from downtown Chattanooga will take approximately 15-25 minutes depending on traffic conditions, and the cost usually varies in the range of $20-30. You can also consider booking a private transfer, which is especially convenient for families with children or large groups.

Car rental is an excellent option for tourists planning to actively explore Chattanooga and its scenic surroundings. The airport features offices of several major rental companies where you can pick up or drop off a car. If you are arriving at the airport in your own vehicle, convenient short-term and long-term parking zones are at your service. Rates depend on the duration of parking: from hourly payment in short-term parking to more economical daily rates in long-term parking, which start from approximately $12 per day.

If your itinerary involves arriving at other airports in the region, factor in additional travel time. The nearest alternatives are McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville and Huntsville International Airport. The largest transport hub in the region, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, is about a two-hour drive from Chattanooga and offers a significantly larger number of international and domestic flights.

Chattanooga Airport (CHA) is distinguished by its compactness and modern organization, making it extremely convenient for passengers. The airport has only one passenger terminal, which serves all domestic flights. Thanks to this, navigation is intuitively clear, and the risk of getting lost is minimized.

The terminal layout is simple and logical. It has two main levels. The Ground Floor is designed for arriving passengers: baggage claim areas, car rental counters, and exits to ground transport, including taxis and shuttles, are located here. The Second Floor is the departure zone. Here you will find airline check-in counters, baggage drop-off points, and a single Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint.

Since the airport has only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between buildings. After passing security screening on the second floor, you immediately enter the "secure" area—a spacious and bright waiting hall where all boarding gates are located. Cafes, shops, and other amenities for passengers waiting for their flight are also located here.

Passing through check-in and screening procedures at Chattanooga Airport typically takes significantly less time than at major hubs. Usually, this takes about 20–30 minutes. Nevertheless, during peak hours (early morning or during holidays), queues may occur. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure to complete all formalities without rushing.

For comfortable navigation, simply follow the signs: they clearly separate departure and arrival flows. All necessary flight information is displayed on electronic boards located both before and after the security zone. The compact size of the terminal means that you can walk from the entrance to the furthest gate in just a few minutes.

The history of Chattanooga Airport (CHA) is a journey from a modest airfield to one of the most innovative aviation hubs in the USA. The official opening took place in 1930, when the airport, named Lovell Field in honor of local aviation pioneer John Lovell, received its first flights. From the very beginning, it played an important role in developing the region's transport network, serving flights for airlines such as American Airlines.

A significant stage in the airport's development was World War II, when Lovell Field was used by the US Army Air Forces as a training base. The post-war years and the advent of the jet age required serious modernization. In 1964, a new, more spacious terminal was built, capable of handling growing passenger traffic and receiving modern aircraft. This terminal became the foundation for future growth.

In 1992, the airport underwent a major renovation, resulting in a modern terminal building with its famous glass dome, which became the calling card of the air gateway to Chattanooga. This project not only improved aesthetics but also significantly increased comfort for passengers. Subsequent expansions were aimed at increasing the number of boarding gates and optimizing space to meet growing demand.

However, the main achievement and unique feature of Chattanooga Airport's history has been its commitment to sustainable development. In 2019, it made history as the first airport in the USA to fully switch to solar power supply. This was made possible by the construction of a massive solar farm directly on the airport grounds. This record-breaking project made CHA a global leader in "green" aviation and a source of pride for the entire city.

Chattanooga Airport (CHA) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is a modern and well-thought-out terminal where it is easy to navigate and pleasant to spend time before departure or after arrival.

For those feeling hungry, the airport operates a food court offering various dining options—from a quick snack and aromatic coffee to a full meal. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, press, and travel essentials. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices will allow you to always stay connected.

Chattanooga Airport cares about the comfort of all categories of passengers. Special nursing rooms are equipped for travelers with small children. The terminal is fully adapted for people with disabilities: there are ramps, accessible restrooms, and elevators, and escort services are available upon prior request to the airline. ATMs are installed for financial matters. First aid is available if necessary.

Although there are no hotels directly within the airport building, many hotels for every taste and budget are located in the immediate vicinity, many of which offer free transfers for their guests. For business travelers, business services and conference rooms are provided at the airport, allowing for effective use of time even while waiting for a flight.

Despite its compact size, Chattanooga Airport (CHA) offers passengers several decent options for a snack or a full meal. The main dining establishments are located in the so-called "airside" zone, that is, after passing security screening, directly near the boarding gates.

If you have time before your flight, an excellent choice for a leisurely lunch or dinner would be the restaurant The Big River Grille & Brewing Works. This is a branch of a well-known local establishment where you can try American cuisine dishes, such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as locally produced beverages. This is a wonderful opportunity to get acquainted with the gastronomic culture of the region without leaving the airport.

For those looking for a quick snack, the Tailwind outlet is open. Here you can grab coffee, pastries, ready-made sandwiches, snacks, and drinks to go. If you wish to see something truly local, note the Chattanooga Whiskey establishment. This is a unique opportunity to explore this famous Tennessee brand before departure.

Prices in airport establishments correspond to the average level for American air harbors—they are slightly higher than in the city. Operating hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: cafes and restaurants open early in the morning and serve passengers until the last departure. Regarding dietary preferences, vegetarian dishes, such as salads or meat-free sandwiches, are possible to find. However, choices for vegans or travelers with strict dietary requirements may be limited, so it is recommended to clarify the ingredients of dishes with the staff.

Traveling through Chattanooga Airport (CHA) usually goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, as it is a small and convenient regional airport. To ensure your trip starts as comfortably as possible, use these tips.

Arrival and Check-in: For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before departure. During peak hours (early morning or holidays), it is better to allow 2 hours. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight on your airline's website and save your boarding pass on your phone. Security checkpoints here usually work faster than at major hubs, but standard TSA rules apply here too: be ready to remove laptops and liquids from your carry-on luggage.

Seat Selection and Carry-on: When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely and exit the plane first. As for carry-on luggage, remember the rule for liquids 3-1-1: containers up to 100 ml (3.4 oz), packed in one transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 liter. Always check the current carry-on and baggage allowance on your airline's website to avoid extra charges at the airport.

Transfers and Customs: Chattanooga Airport is not a major transfer hub and does not serve regular international flights, so there is no customs and border control here for arriving passengers. If you are flying to Chattanooga from abroad with a transfer in another US city, you will pass all formalities at the first airport of arrival. If you have a transfer in another city on your way from Chattanooga, ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if it is a major hub such as Atlanta (ATL) or Charlotte (CLT).

Savings and Flight Delays: To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are typically higher. In case of a flight delay, first contact an airline representative or check the mobile app for information on the new departure time or rebooking options. Chattanooga Airport has free Wi-Fi and several cafes where you can comfortably spend time while waiting.