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GSP Adds Nonstop Flights to Nashville and Austin

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. dds-nonstop-flights-to-nashville-and-austin.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 11:11 GMT by Fox Carolina
      Locales: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

GREENVILLE, S.C. (February 24th, 2026) - The Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) is poised for significant growth with the announcement of two new nonstop routes: Nashville (BNA) and Austin (AUS). These additions, slated to launch in late 2026, underscore GSP's increasing importance as a regional travel hub and a driver of economic development for the Upstate South Carolina area. Allegiant Air will initiate service to Nashville on November 15, 2026, offering three flights per week, while Southwest Airlines will connect Greenville to Austin daily beginning December 8, 2026.

This expansion isn't merely about adding destinations; it's a reflection of the burgeoning demand for travel to and from the Greenville-Spartanburg region. For years, residents have expressed a desire for more direct flight options, minimizing layovers and maximizing convenience. GSP officials have clearly listened, and the addition of these routes demonstrates a strategic commitment to meeting the needs of the local population and attracting new visitors.

"We are excited to continue to add new service to GSP," stated GSP president Dave Edwards. "These additions provide more options for our travelers and help to connect our region to more of the country." Edwards' statement highlights a crucial element: connectivity. Direct flights aren't just about saving time; they foster stronger business ties, facilitate tourism, and make the region more attractive to potential investors and residents.

Nashville: A Music City Connection

The Nashville route, served by Allegiant Air, caters to both leisure and business travelers. Nashville's popularity as a tourist destination has soared in recent years, fueled by its vibrant music scene, thriving culinary landscape, and growing reputation as a center for healthcare innovation. Direct access from GSP will undoubtedly entice Upstate residents to experience Music City, and conversely, will likely draw visitors from Nashville seeking to explore the attractions of the South Carolina mountains and the burgeoning Greenville arts scene. Allegiant's focus on low-cost travel also makes this route particularly accessible to a wider range of travelers.

Austin: Tech Hub and Cultural Hotspot

The daily Southwest Airlines service to Austin is arguably the more significant of the two additions. Austin, Texas, is a rapidly growing metropolis, renowned as a global hub for technology, innovation, and culture. The city is home to major corporations like Dell, Tesla, and Apple, creating a strong demand for business travel. However, Austin's appeal extends far beyond the corporate world. Its live music venues, eclectic food scene, and outdoor recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for tourists and those seeking a vibrant lifestyle.

Southwest's commitment to daily flights signals a strong belief in the long-term viability of this route. Southwest is known for its customer-friendly policies and extensive network, further solidifying GSP's position as a well-connected airport. The daily service will be particularly valuable for businesses with operations in both the Upstate South Carolina and Austin areas, enabling seamless travel for employees and fostering collaboration.

Economic Impact and Future Growth The addition of these routes is projected to generate a substantial economic impact for the Greenville-Spartanburg region. Increased tourism will boost local businesses, creating jobs in the hospitality, retail, and entertainment sectors. The ease of travel will also attract new businesses to the area, further diversifying the regional economy. GSP itself will benefit from increased passenger traffic, leading to greater revenue and opportunities for expansion.

Local economists predict a potential increase in regional GDP as a direct result of the new routes. They anticipate a ripple effect, with increased spending at hotels, restaurants, and local attractions. Furthermore, the enhanced connectivity could encourage companies to establish or expand their presence in the Upstate, drawn by the improved access to key markets like Austin and Nashville.

The addition of Nashville and Austin is just the beginning. GSP officials are actively pursuing other opportunities to expand the airport's route network, targeting destinations with strong economic and tourism potential. The airport is also investing in infrastructure improvements to accommodate the anticipated increase in passenger traffic, including upgrades to baggage handling systems and terminal facilities. GSP's trajectory clearly points towards becoming a major regional airport, serving as a gateway to the Upstate and beyond.