Nashville, TN, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Nashville International Airport is facing severe traffic congestion following a crash on Terminal Drive, affecting access to Interstate 40 ramps. Travelers are experiencing significant delays, with many stuck for hours. Authorities are advising travelers to plan ahead and allow extra travel time due to ongoing roadwork on Donelson Pike, compounding the situation. Traffic management support is being provided by local police. Travelers are encouraged to stay updated on conditions and consider alternative routes during this disruption.
Nashville, Tennessee – Nashville International Airport (BNA) is experiencing significant traffic congestion on Monday afternoon, primarily due to a crash on Terminal Drive, as reported by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT). The incident is leading to extensive delays for travelers attempting to access the Interstate 40 ramps to the airport.
Officials are urging travelers to plan ahead and allow extra time to navigate the heavy traffic resulting from the accident. To address the situation, a HELP truck has been dispatched to the crash site to evaluate and provide any necessary assistance.
Reports from drivers indicate that many have found themselves stuck in traffic for hours. Some individuals have even been trapped in the rental car garages adjacent to the airport due to the gridlock. Frustration is mounting among travelers, with social media posts showing people exiting their vehicles to walk in the road in an attempt to reach the terminal.
As of approximately 4:30 PM, TDOT confirmed that the crash had been cleared; however, congestion remains in the vicinity. Traffic management assistance from Metro Police and personnel from the Tennessee Highway Patrol commenced by 5:45 PM to help alleviate the ongoing delays.
In addition to the crash, lane closures are being executed for milling and paving work on Donelson Pike near the airport. These closures are set to occur daily from 9 AM to 3 PM as part of TDOT’s ongoing I-40 Interchange project at Donelson Pike. This work is expected to impact traffic conditions in the area for the next three weeks.
Drivers should also be aware of intermittent lane closures on I-40 that will continue overnight as crews complete essential work, including striping and installing rumble strips. These additional maintenance efforts are expected to compound traffic difficulties around the airport during the evenings.
Safety and Travel Recommendations
Authorities recommend that anyone traveling to or from Nashville International Airport should allow for additional travel time and consider alternative routes where possible. Staying updated through traffic reports and airport announcements can also aid in navigating the congested areas affected by both the crash and roadway work.
Background Information
Nashville International Airport is a major hub for domestic and international travel, serving millions of passengers annually. The airport’s proximity to Interstate 40 makes it accessible for many travelers, but incidences such as this crash and ongoing roadwork highlight the vulnerabilities of the surrounding infrastructure.
Expected Traffic Conditions
As the milling and paving work continues, long-term traffic disruptions are anticipated. The airport and TDOT are monitoring the situation closely and endeavoring to minimize delays as much as possible.
Conclusion
As conditions evolve, travelers are encouraged to stay patient and responsive to changes where necessary. With the roadway improvements underway and the management of the current traffic incident, it is hoped that normal traffic patterns will resume soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the traffic congestion at Nashville International Airport?
The primary cause of the traffic congestion was a crash on Terminal Drive, which led to significant delays on the Interstate 40 ramps to the airport.
Are there ongoing road work projects affecting traffic?
Yes, there are ongoing milling and paving improvements on Donelson Pike near the airport, which will continue daily from 9 AM to 3 PM for the next three weeks.
What should travelers do to prepare for heavy traffic?
Travelers are advised to arrive early and check for traffic updates to allow extra time for their commute, especially during peak travel hours.
Chart: Key Features of the Traffic Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Crash Location | Terminal Drive near Nashville International Airport |
| Traffic Impact | Severe delays on I-40 ramps |
| Hazmat Response | HELP truck dispatched |
| Ongoing Road Work | Milling and paving on Donelson Pike from 9 AM to 3 PM |
| Traffic Management | Support from Metro Police and Tennessee Highway Patrol |
| Expected Duration | Road work impacts for three weeks, with overnight closures on I-40 |
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Additional Resources
- WSMV: Heavy Traffic at Nashville Airport
- Fox News: Mike Wolfe Hospitalized
- Williamson Source: Traffic Backup After Crash
- Google Search: Nashville International Airport traffic crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nashville International Airport
Author: HERE Nashville
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