What To Know
- Nashville International Airport also has a dedicated cargo facility, but its operations are on a smaller scale compared to Memphis International Airport.
- According to the Airports Council International (ACI), Memphis International Airport is ranked 55th in North America in terms of passenger traffic, while Nashville International Airport is ranked 14th.
- Based on the analysis of terminal size, runway length, passenger traffic, cargo operations, other facilities, and airport rankings, it is evident that Nashville International Airport is the larger airport compared to Memphis International Airport.
The question of whether Memphis Airport is bigger than Nashville has been a topic of debate among travelers and aviation enthusiasts alike. Both airports serve as major transportation hubs in their respective states, but which one holds the title of the larger facility? In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the details of each airport’s infrastructure, operations, and traffic statistics to determine the answer to this intriguing question.
Terminal Size and Capacity
Memphis International Airport (MEM) boasts two passenger terminals: Terminal A and Terminal B, which cover a combined area of approximately 1.2 million square feet. Nashville International Airport (BNA), on the other hand, features three terminals: Terminal A, B, and C, with a total area of approximately 1.5 million square feet. Based on terminal size alone, Nashville International Airport takes the lead.
Runway Length and Number
When it comes to runway length, Memphis International Airport has the upper hand. Its longest runway, Runway 18L/36R, stretches 11,000 feet in length, while Nashville International Airport‘s longest runway, Runway 18C/36C, measures 8,400 feet. Additionally, Memphis International Airport has a total of six runways, while Nashville International Airport has five.
Passenger Traffic
Passenger traffic is a crucial indicator of an airport’s size and significance. In 2022, Memphis International Airport served approximately 4.9 million passengers, while Nashville International Airport witnessed an impressive 18.2 million passengers. This substantial difference in passenger traffic clearly demonstrates that Nashville International Airport is significantly larger in terms of passenger operations.
Cargo Operations
Memphis International Airport is renowned for its extensive cargo operations, primarily due to its strategic location as a major hub for FedEx Express. The airport handles a massive volume of air cargo, making it one of the largest cargo airports in the United States. Nashville International Airport also has a dedicated cargo facility, but its operations are on a smaller scale compared to Memphis International Airport.
Other Facilities and Amenities
Both airports offer a wide range of facilities and amenities to enhance the travel experience of passengers. Memphis International Airport features a dedicated concourse for international flights, while Nashville International Airport has a state-of-the-art terminal dedicated to Southwest Airlines. Additionally, both airports provide ample parking spaces, ground transportation options, and a variety of dining and shopping concessions.
Airport Rankings
According to the Airports Council International (ACI), Memphis International Airport is ranked 55th in North America in terms of passenger traffic, while Nashville International Airport is ranked 14th. This ranking further supports the notion that Nashville International Airport is significantly larger than Memphis International Airport.
Final Thoughts: Nashville International Airport Emerges as the Larger Facility
Based on the analysis of terminal size, runway length, passenger traffic, cargo operations, other facilities, and airport rankings, it is evident that Nashville International Airport is the larger airport compared to Memphis International Airport. Nashville International Airport’s larger terminals, higher passenger traffic, and extensive facilities make it the more significant transportation hub in the region.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. How many gates does Memphis International Airport have?
Memphis International Airport has 47 gates across its two terminals.
2. What is the busiest route from Nashville International Airport?
The busiest route from Nashville International Airport is to Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL).
3. Does Memphis International Airport offer direct flights to international destinations?
Yes, Memphis International Airport offers direct flights to several international destinations, including Cancun, Mexico, and Montego Bay, Jamaica.
4. What is the largest airline operating at Nashville International Airport?
Southwest Airlines is the largest airline operating at Nashville International Airport, based on passenger traffic.
5. Does Memphis International Airport have a dedicated cargo terminal?
Yes, Memphis International Airport has a dedicated cargo terminal that handles a significant volume of air cargo.
