Memphis International Airport (MEM) is a major gateway for Tennessee travelers, connecting you to spots all over the world. Sure, it’s famous for domestic flights, but you’ll also find a handful of international airlines here, giving you some decent options for heading abroad.
The best international airlines at Memphis are known for solid service, good prices, and easy connections to major cities around the globe.
If you’re planning to fly internationally from Memphis, it helps to know which airlines offer the smoothest routes and best service. American Airlines and Delta pretty much run the show for international flights out of MEM, and their partnerships with other global carriers can open up even more destinations.
Flying out of Memphis means you can expect a pretty smooth airport experience. The airport’s got the basics covered—services and amenities that make international travel less stressful.
Key Takeways
- You’ll find reliable international flight options at Memphis International Airport.
- Top airlines provide easy connections to global destinations from MEM.
- The airport’s set up to make international travel as painless as possible.
Overview of International Airlines at Memphis International Airport
Memphis International Airport is a big player in connecting Memphis to the rest of the world. There are several major airlines here offering international routes, and you’ll see a steady stream of flights each week.
The airport’s international service leans heavily on efficiency and reliable connections.
Major Carriers Operating International Routes
At MEM, American Airlines is your go-to for international flights. They’ve got direct connections to heavy-hitter hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth and Miami, which then open up a ton of global destinations.
Other airlines like Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines stick mostly to domestic routes. Allegiant Air is pretty much the same—mainly domestic, rarely international from Memphis.
Honestly, if you’re flying internationally from Memphis, you’ll probably end up booking with American Airlines because of its reach and partnerships.
Average Flights Per Week and Destinations
The number of international flights in and out of Memphis isn’t huge compared to giant airports. You’ll get several flights per day via connecting hubs, but true direct international flights are pretty rare.
Most of the international action is focused on Canada, Mexico, and some short-haul Caribbean spots, usually through connections with American Airlines.
Since Memphis is more of a regional hub, you’ll often find yourself connecting through bigger airports for those long-haul trips.
Most Popular Airlines for International Travel
For international travel out of Memphis, American Airlines is the clear favorite. Their broad network and reliable schedules make them the top pick for most folks flying abroad from MEM.
Spirit and Southwest are really more about budget domestic flights here, so they don’t factor in much for international trips.
If you want to fly internationally from Memphis, American Airlines is usually your best option. You’ll probably need to change planes at a larger hub to reach your final destination.
How to Find the Best International Flights from Memphis
Scoring the best international flights from Memphis is part art, part science. Comparing airlines, knowing the best times to fly, and using price-tracking tools can actually save you a chunk of change.
Comparing Airlines and Services
First off, see which international airlines are flying out of Memphis. Some offer nonstop or one-stop flights to popular spots, but you’ll want to check things like baggage fees, seat comfort, and flight times.
Don’t forget to look at customer service and what they offer on board. If an airline’s always delayed or cancels flights, that’s a red flag.
Comparison sites and apps make it way easier to see your options side by side. It’s a quick way to find the sweet spot between price and comfort.
Identifying the Cheapest Month to Fly
The cheapest month to fly from Memphis really depends on where you’re going. For a lot of places, late fall or early spring is when you’ll find the best deals.
Try to avoid peak times like summer and holidays—they’re almost always pricier. Booking a few weeks in advance usually helps, and flying mid-week can save you some cash too.
Travel sites with historical fare data can help you spot the cheapest months. Planning your trip around these times can mean big savings.
Utilizing Price Alerts and Fare Tracking
Set up price alerts on your favorite travel sites or apps. This way, you’ll get a heads-up when prices drop—no need to check every day.
Fare tracking tools are handy for watching how prices shift over time. You can pounce when you see a good deal before fares jump.
Some apps even suggest alternate dates or nearby airports if they spot a better deal. Not a bad way to keep your options open.
Key tips for price alerts:
- Try a couple different alert services
- Check your alerts regularly
- Be ready to snag a ticket when prices dip
What to Expect When Flying Internationally from Memphis Tennessee Airport
Flying out of Memphis International for an international trip takes a bit of prep. The airport’s got services to make things easier, and flight times will depend on where you’re heading.
Airport Facilities and Traveler Services
MEM has self-service kiosks to make check-in faster. Plan to arrive at least two hours before your flight, just in case. Security lines are usually short, but early mornings can be a bit chaotic.
There are lounges, a few dining spots, and free Wi-Fi throughout the airport. Shops are available for those last-minute things you forgot to pack.
Getting ground transportation is pretty straightforward—taxis, rideshares, and rentals are right there. If you need help, staff are around and generally happy to point you in the right direction.
Average Flight Time and Route Information
Most international flights from Memphis connect through bigger hubs, usually Atlanta or Dallas.
Flights to places like Cancun or Mexico City? Those are typically around 3 to 4 hours in the air.
Direct flights are pretty limited, so you’ll probably have a layover if you’re heading farther. Honestly, planning ahead makes life easier when picking routes.
Flight times can jump around a bit depending on where you’re headed and which airline you book. It’s worth double-checking those schedules before you commit.