The Arizonan arrives in Memphis for the Friday's debate in nearby Oxford, Mississippi.
On board the flight, top aide Mark Salter says McCain decided to participate in the debate just an hour or so before leaving Washington. He participated in a few hours of debate prep Thursday night.
Salter also says McCain plans to return to Washington immediately after the debate if a bailout deal does not look close. Read full pool report.
Trip comes after statement says McCain will attend the debate at Ole Miss and his campaign is "resuming all activities." Read it here.
