Reno to Nashville: New Southwest Nonstop Flight Launches Oct 1

Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is set to expand its connectivity to the southeastern United States with the introduction of a new, non-stop service to Nashville International Airport (BNA) beginning October 1, 2026. The route, operated by Southwest Airlines, marks the airline’s twelfth non-stop destination from Reno, signaling a growing confidence in the region’s potential for both leisure and business travel.

The announcement, made on Thursday, February 12, 2026, comes as Reno-Tahoe continues to position itself as a destination for major events, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences. According to officials, the new service is the result of sustained collaboration between the airport authority, Southwest Airlines, and the local community.

“We’re very excited to celebrate something our community has been working toward for a long time,” said Cris Jensen, Interim President/CEO of the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, in a statement. “We’re proud to offer passengers a new, convenient connection to the Southeast and are proud to do it with a trusted partner like Southwest Airlines.”

The addition of the Reno-Nashville route is not merely about expanding travel options for tourists. It also addresses a growing need for improved business connectivity. Nashville has emerged as a significant hub for business and conventions, and the direct flight is expected to streamline travel for attendees and organizers looking to access the Reno-Tahoe region. Mike Larragueta, President and CEO of Visit Reno Tahoe, emphasized this point, stating, “Nashville is a key business and convention market, and this flight makes it easier than ever for attendees and event organizers to reach Reno Tahoe – removing barriers, saving time, and reinforcing our destination’s accessibility.”

The strategic importance of the new route extends beyond direct travel between the two cities. Airport officials believe the connection will facilitate onward travel to other destinations via Nashville, effectively broadening Reno-Tahoe’s reach within the national and international travel network. This is particularly relevant as Reno-Tahoe seeks to attract a wider range of visitors and investors.

Southwest Airlines’ decision to invest in the Reno-Nashville route reflects a broader trend of increasing confidence in the economic prospects of the Reno-Tahoe region. Daniel Jones, Southwest Airlines’ Vice President of Network Planning, described the move as “a vote of confidence about the airport’s prospects,” adding that the airline is “bullish on (Reno-Tahoe International Airport) and this region.” He further explained that the route is “the direct result of strong local demand and a great partnership with the airport and community.”

The development also aligns with the broader economic goals of the city of Reno. Reno Mayor and Visit Reno Tahoe Board Chair Hillary Schieve highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, stating, “This announcement is a great example of what can happen when an airline, an airport and a community come together with a shared goal.” She added that such partnerships “strengthen our region’s connectivity, support economic growth, and reflect the incredible momentum Reno Tahoe continues to build on a national stage.”

The Reno-Tahoe region has been experiencing sustained growth in recent years, driven by factors such as its proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities, a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other western US cities, and a growing tech sector. The new flight to Nashville is expected to further accelerate this growth by enhancing the region’s accessibility and attractiveness to both businesses and tourists.

Beyond the economic benefits, the new route also has the potential to foster cultural exchange between Reno-Tahoe and Nashville, two cities renowned for their vibrant music scenes. Larragueta noted this connection, stating, “From one music city to another, this connection strengthens the cultural and experiential ties between our destinations.”

Tickets for the new non-stop service are currently on sale, allowing travelers to begin planning their trips between Reno-Tahoe and Nashville. The launch of the route in October 2026 is anticipated to be a significant milestone for the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and the surrounding region, solidifying its position as a growing hub for travel and commerce.