Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (Lovell Field)
The primary commercial airport for Chattanooga, serving as a regional hub for passenger and cargo operations.
Overview of the Airport
Lovell Field (CHA) is located 5 miles east of downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee, on 950 acres. It serves as the main gateway for air travel in southeastern Tennessee and supports both commercial and general aviation activities.
35.0352, -85.2036
Growth Trend
Passenger traffic increased by 6.1% year-over-year, reflecting regional economic growth.
Employment
1,250
Workers include airline staff, ground services, concessions, security, and airport administration.
Global Ranking
Market Share of Major Airlines
Capacity Expansion
Ongoing terminal renovations and apron expansions will increase passenger and cargo handling capabilities.
Technological Advancements
Deployment of advanced baggage screening and digital wayfinding enhances operational efficiency and passenger experience.
Sustainability Initiatives
Implementation of energy-efficient lighting and recycling programs supports airport-wide sustainability goals.
General Stats
Comprehensive passenger capacity profiles and geographical insights.
View General Stats→Latest News & Updates
Recent developments and updates for Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (Lovell Field).
Chattanooga Airport — News & Media
Chattanooga Airport Chief Executive Terry Hart said Monday he expects passenger boardings to climb to nearly a half million this year at Lovell Field and hit its highest mark since the pandemic took the air out of traffic.
Chattanooga Airport to open new aviation-themed park with observation deck
The Chattanooga Airport will be home to a brand new aviation-themed public park next year, featuring an observation deck after Chattanooga city council approved a rezoning of Lovell Field Loop as an 'open space'.
Airport Receives $1.2 Million Grant For New Playground And Park
The Chattanooga Airport announced that it received a $1.2 million grant for the city's third BlueCross BlueShield Healthy Places playground and park, which may open as soon as summer 2026.
Operations Logistics & Timelines
Step-by-step process transit times for passengers and cargo.
For Clients
Passenger process times from arrival to gate.
- Arrival & Drop-off15-45 mins
- Check-in & Baggage Drop30-90 mins
- TSA Security Screening5-20 mins (PreCheck: <5 mins, Regular: 10-20 mins)
- Gate Check-in & Boarding10-30 mins
- Boarding & Departure5-15 mins
For Employees
Cargo handling deadlines and operational procedures.
- General Cargo Cut-off60 mins pre-departure
- Arrival & Baggage Manifesting30 mins prior to departure
- Security Screening15 mins prior to departure
- Loading Operations15 mins prior to departure
- BACS (Baggage Acceptance System)45 mins prior to departure
- Final Check & Ramp Inspection15 mins prior to departure
- Pushback & DepartureAs Scheduled
Passengers' Tips & Tricks
- 1
Arrive Early
Allow extra time for parking, check-in, and security, especially during peak travel seasons. The airport can get busy.
- 2
Utilize Mobile Check-in
Save time by checking in online through the airline’s app or website. This allows you to bypass the ticket counter and go straight to security.
- 3
Explore Terminal Amenities
The CHA terminal offers various amenities, including restaurants, shops, and charging stations. Plan your meals and purchases in advance to avoid long lines.
- 4
Transportation Options
Consider ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) or taxi services for convenient transportation to and from the airport. Parking is available, but rates vary.
- 5
Check Flight Status Regularly
Stay updated on your flight's status via the airline's app or the airport's website to avoid any unexpected delays or changes.
Cargo Tips & Tricks
- 1
Book in Advance
Air freight capacity at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) can fluctuate. Booking your cargo shipments well in advance ensures availability and potentially secures more favorable rates, especially during peak seasons.
- 2
Leverage Savannah Proximity
CHA's proximity to the Port of Savannah (approximately 496km) presents a significant advantage for cargo operations. Utilizing Savannah for transshipment can streamline your supply chain and reduce transportation costs.
- 3
Understand Airport Capacity
While CHA supports both commercial and general aviation, understanding the airport's current operational capacity and any scheduled maintenance is crucial for efficient planning and scheduling of cargo deliveries.
- 4
Utilize FBO Services
Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport offers various Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs) providing cargo handling, storage, and logistics support. Selecting an FBO with experience in air cargo operations can significantly improve efficiency.
- 5
Consider Cargo Throughput Data
With a 25.2KCargoThroughput, CHA is a significant cargo hub in the Southeast. Utilizing available data on cargo trends and volume can help optimize your shipping strategy and resource allocation.
Tools & Resources
Essential tools, portals, and resources for clients and partners.
Data & Reports
Official statistics, research reports, and data tracking for Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (Lovell Field).
Wikipedia - Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport
Provides general information about the airport, including its location and basic statistics.
BTS - Destination Airport Statistics
Transportation Statistics Annual Reports - Vehicle Inventory and Use Survey data for Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA).
Georgia DOT - Air Cargo Study Technical Report
A 277-page technical report detailing air cargo operations, including data for Chattanooga Lovell Field (CHA).
FAA - 2025 Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grants
Information about the FAA's AIP grant program and projects funded at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA).
Local3News - Chattanooga Airport Growth
News article detailing passenger and cargo growth at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, referencing Lovell Field.
Location & Maps
Find Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (Lovell Field) on popular mapping services.
Interactive Map
Map Legend
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Recommendations
Policy Alignment
Collaborate with local and federal agencies to secure infrastructure funding and maintain compliance with aviation regulations.
Infrastructure Investment
Focus on terminal modernization and airfield upgrades to support future growth and resilience.
Sustainability Focus
Expand green initiatives, including renewable energy adoption and waste reduction, to meet environmental targets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common inquiries about operations and logistics at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (Lovell Field).
What is the IATA code for Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport?
The IATA code for Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (Lovell Field) is CHA.
How much do rental cars typically cost at CHA?
Rental car rates vary by vehicle class and provider. Please contact one of the rental car companies for up-to-date pricing.
What transportation options are available from the airport?
Public bus service is available through the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA), specifically Route 19, which connects the airport with downtown Chattanooga.
Where is Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport located?
Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (Lovell Field) is 5 miles (8 km) east of downtown Chattanooga, in Hamilton County, Tennessee.
For More Info
Third-party resources, government portals, ratings, and more.
