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Episode Description Aviation has played a crucial role in the development and growth of East Tennessee since the early 1900s. As McGhee Tyson Airport celebrates its 84th Anniversary, this podcast highlights some of the inspirational people and aviation milestones that have occurred in our region. We are joined by Bob Davis, a local historian and pilot, who has spent years researching TYS and DKX. Aviation buffs are welcome! Guests in this Episode Becky and Mr. Davis at a luncheon in 2012 where Mr. Davis shared TYS history. Mr. Bob Davis is a local historian; Knoxville native; pilot based at DKX; and a FAA designated pilot examiner. Mentioned in this Episode How did McGhee Tyson Airport get its name? Answered at 6:53 July 29, 1937: first commercial flight at McGhee Tyson Airport, an American Airlines transcontinental airmail route Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame Tennessee Museum of Aviation East Tennessee’s Early Aviators: Evelyn Johnson Elmer Wood Farris Thomas Hodges Briscoe Walter Self East Tennessee Historical Society There are not many historical landmarks within the industry, because “aviation moves on.” Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post 8+ Decades of Aviation History in East Tennessee appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description In celebration of International Podcast Day, we bring you a podcast episode all about airport podcasts. We speak with the podcasts hosts from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (podcast: The Austin Approach) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (podcast: The Fly Angle) about their airport’s podcast: why they started them, what topics are most-popular, and how airport podcasting fits into their overall airport communication plan. These podcast hosts also share best practices for podcasting, as well as their favorite podcasts to listen to on their morning commute. Guests in this Episode Mentioned in this Episode Austin-Bergstrom International Airport’s (AUS) website Raleigh-Durham International Airport’s (RDU) website AUS’ podcast: The Austin Approach RDU’s podcast: The Fly Angle Popular podcast episodes mentioned in this podcast from The Austin Approach: The Austin Approach Winter Weather Update Let there be rock! And R&B! And country! Popular podcast episodes mentioned in this podcast from The Fly Angle: RDU CEO Mike Landguth Shares His “Lessons Learned” From The Past Year Popular Triangle Brewery on Tap at RDU Favorite (non-aviation) podcasts mentioned by our guests: Talent Development Hot Seat Dateline Podcast Song Exploder We Interrupt This Broadcast Serial The Disconnect Hidden Brain Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post What Do AUS, RDU, and TYS Have in Common? A Podcast! appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description A lot has changed in aviation hiring practices in the past two years. Some of the change is the direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic, while some attribute the change to a Silver Tsunami. Never heard that term before? Us either! Tune into this episode to learn all about it from Blake Astran, J.D., Vice President of Business operations for ADK Consulting & Executive Search. Guests in this Episode “Blake joins ADK with years of executive recruiting experience primarily focusing on public sector clients including aviation, transportation, and local governments. Previously, Blake practiced law in both the public and private sectors, with a concentration on criminal law. Most recently, Blake was a senior associate at Krauthamer & Associates, Inc, a large executive recruitment firm in Chevy Chase, MD. Prior to his work at Krauthamer, Blake was an associate attorney with the Law Offices of Daniel J. Wright. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in sports management with a minor in business from the University of Florida, Blake attended Barry University Law School where he earned his Juris Doctorate degree and is a licensed attorney in the state of Maryland. Blake also spent time in Rome, Italy at Temple University School of Law’s Cultural Immersion Program. Blake currently resides in Florida with his wife and three young children. They enjoy traveling, attending Florida Gator football games, and going on cruises.” Photo and Bio Credit: ADK Consulting & Executive Search Mentioned in this Episode ADK Consulting & Executive Search Current and Active Projects with ADK The #1 quality interviewers look for: communication The #1 quality interviewees look for: culture Aviation certifications, such as the AAE, can help interviewees stick out amongst other candidates. ‘Silver Tsunami’–this will have major implications on succession planning Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post Help Wanted: New Trends in Hiring within the Aviation Industry appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Airlines for America (A4A) is a leading voice in advocating for crucial measures and policies that promote safety, security and a thriving US airline industry. In this episode, Rebecca Spicer, Senior Vice President of Communications for A4A, joins us as we discuss commercial air service pandemic recovery and the actions airlines are taking to sustain and build their operations moving through the end of the year and into 2022. You’ll even take away a few travel tips to utilize during this ‘new’ travel experience. Guests in this Episode Rebecca Spicer was named Senior Vice President, Communications at Airlines for America (A4A), in June 2018. She is responsible for communications initiatives that execute key public relations strategies, help advance policy priorities and achieve advocacy objectives. In March 2020, she was named to PRWeek’s Hall of Femme, which recognizes women who are “leaders in the communications industry who challenge the status quo, move the needle in business and strive to make a difference.” Prior to joining A4A, Spicer worked for nearly 12 years at the National Beer Wholesalers Association, where she most recently served as Senior Vice President, Communications & Public Affairs. Additionally, Spicer served in the George W. Bush White House as associate director of communications, where she produced televised presidential events. Earlier, she worked as a television producer at stations across the country, including six years at WJLA in Washington, D.C., where she produced the award-winning six p.m. newscast, in addition to stations in Houston, Texas; New Haven, Conn.; and Birmingham, Ala.; as well as CNN in Atlanta, Ga. A native of Nashville, Tenn., Spicer holds degrees from the University of the South in Sewanee, Tenn., and Indiana University in Bloomington, Ind. She serves on the Board of the National Council for Adoption and on the Advisory Council of the Salvation Army National Capital Region. Photo and Bio Credit: Airlines for America             Mentioned in this Episode Airlines for America’s website: airlines.org A4A’s motto: ‘We Connect the World.‘ Harvard’s ‘Curb-to-Curb Travel Through Airports’ study Highlights and Summary Full Report (262 pages) Main takeaways:  “probability of being infected in an airport is very low” “impressive and consistent commitments that airports have made to reduce risk of disease transmissions” Summer 2021: passenger traffic down approximately 20% compared to 2019 passenger levels Airlines (and airports) are moving towards touchless travel. Pro tip: Download your airline’s mobile app! Airline Sustainability A4A’: Fly Healthy, Fly Smart Only state to add flights during the pandemic? Montana! Travel tips:  Give yourself extra time to get to the airport. Don’t be surprised by airport construction. Pack a snack and empty water bottle. Concessionaires are operating with limited hours.  Don’t forget your mask! Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post Airline Pandemic Progress: From Rescue to Recovery appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description  Traveling this summer? You’re not alone! With more people taking to the skies this summer, this episode provides you with six quick tips you can take to make your travel experience simple and safe. From parking tips to COVID-19 resources, this episode has all the information you need to know before you go. Mentioned in this Episode Allegiant’s new flights to Austin, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Myrtle Beach American Airlines resumes flights to Miami International Delta now offering mainline service (bigger aircraft, Boeing 717) to Atlanta Summer travel tips: Per federal mandate, masks are required while inside the airport and on-board aircraft. This mandate is in effect until September 13, 2021. If you are arriving at McGhee Tyson Airport, we highly recommend that you pre-book your taxi or rental car in order to ensure transportation. A list of ground transportation companies that are licensed to do business at the airport can be found here: flyknoxville.com/ground-transportation. We are in the process of a Parking Garage Improvement Project, which will temporarily close various areas of the parking garage. If the Long Term Lot is full, additional parking can be found in our Economy Lot, which is located behind the Airport Hilton. A parking map can be found here: flyknoxville.com/parking-directions. We strongly encourage you to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight in order to give yourself plenty of time to find a parking spot, check your luggage with your airline, get through security, and find your departure gate If you have any questions or concerns about travel restrictions in the area to which you’re traveling, visit flyknoxville.com/covid19 in order to access travel tools and recommendations for COVID-19 questions. Look into programs that can make your travel experience quicker and easier, such as TSA’s PreCheck. Enrollment Location can be found here.  Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post Hot Tips for Summer Travel appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Airfield lighting is one of the many requirements that keep an airport compliant with the FAA’s Part 139 Certification. Have you ever wondered what the different airfield lighting colors signify? Or how much time and resources it takes to keep the airport terminal ‘lit’ 24/7? In this episode, we talk with Ken Eckert, MKAA Facility Manager, and Sam Knisley, MKAA Airfield Electrician, to answer all of your questions about current airport lighting and what to expect in the future. Guests in this Episode Mentioned in this Episode MKAA implements a building automation system. Facility management includes energy management. Daylight harvesting MKAA has light-emitting diode (aka LED) lighting in-terminal. MKAA must consider the ROI for lighting projects.  DID YOU KNOW: MKAA is the City of Alcoa’s highest paying customer, spending approx. $50,000 a month for electricity.  There are currently 2,200 airfield lights at McGhee Tyson Airport.  After the runway construction project is complete, the TYS airfield will have 3,500 lights.  More facts about airport beacons Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post TYS is Lit: The Facts About Airport Lighting appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Summer travel season is among us! While you’re preparing for your vacation or looking for planning inspiration, many questions can arise. Are there travel restrictions in this city? Do I need a negative COVID test to fly into this airport? We speak with representatives from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and Myrtle Beach International Airport, who share what you can expect when traveling to their city and what you should see during your time there.  Guests in this Episode Rick Piccolo, A.A.E., is the President & CEO of Sarasota Bradenton International Airport Bryce Dubee is the Public Information Specialist Sr. of the City of Austin Aviation Department Sue Stevens, A.A.E., works in Air Service Development for Myrtle Beach International Airport  Mentioned in this Episode From Interview with SRQ: SRQ has 10 airlines and 47 nonstop destinations. Parking and rental car area is right across the street from the terminal. Restaurants in Sarasota are at 100% capacity, live events are happening as scheduled, and (most importantly!) the beaches are open. Alleigant’s service from TYS to SRQ beings on June 3, 2021, and is twice weekly– Thursday and Sunday. Book your flight to SRQ here! From Interview with AUS: Check out Austin-Bergstrom’s podcast: The Austin Approach Allegiant flies into AUS’ south terminal. Find out more by using AUS’ interactive airport map.  AUS has Covid testing on-site if you want to get tested before you leave AUS. The Austin area is known for their BBQ, live music, and outdoor activities (and Austin City Limits Music Festival). Alleigant’s service from TYS to AUS is offered year-round, twice weekly– Monday and Friday. Book your flight to AUS here! From Interview with MYR:  Myrtle Beach has 60 miles of beaches! It’s known as the Miniature Golf Capital of the World.  It’s also known as the seafood capital on South Carolina, thanks to Murrells Inlet.  ‘Myrtle Beach has something for everybody!’  Alleigant’s service from TYS to MYR begins on June 2, 2021 and is twice weekly– Wednesday and Saturday. Book your flight to MYR here! Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post What to Expect if Traveling to FL, TX or SC from TYS this Summer appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description The general aviation industry has experienced more than five consecutive years of growth, even throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic. Serving this industry, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is the largest general aviation association in America and offers endless advocacy and resources for current and future pilots. In this episode, we talk with Mike Ginter, Vice President of Airports and State Advocacy for AOPA, about why this industry continues to grow, how to become a pilot, and why general aviation is critical to the success of local communities.  Guest in this Episode Mike Ginter is the Vice President of Airports and State Advocacy for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). Mentioned in this Episode AOPA is the largest aviation association in America with more 330,000 members. The pilot population has increased annually over the past five years and should continue to grow. Downtown Island Airport is MKAA’s general aviation airport  Previous Podcast Episode: ‘General Aviation at the Island’ AOPA provides pilots with any information they want to know regarding purchasing aircraft, maintenance, regulations, medical safety, legal support and more. On any given day, there are more Cessna 172s flying than 737s. ‘Civil Air Patrol Delivers Coronavirus Vaccine’ AOPA’s Air Safety Institute Aviation safety is continuing to increase! Interested in becoming a pilot? Check out ‘You Can Fly’. Annual Aviation Events: SUN n’ FUN in Lakeland, FL EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI Airport and Airway Trust Fund In order to be successful, communities need to look at their airports as a magnet for growth. AOPA: protecting your freedom to fly Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 Feature Photo for this Episode Courtesy of AOPA The post Clear Skies for General Aviation…Even During A Pandemic appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description This episode explores the vast amount of resources available to minority-owned businesses through airports and their local municipalities. Alan Jones, Director of Administration and DBE Liasion Officer with the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority, and Pamela Cotham, Assistant Purchasing Agent and Small Business & Diversity Outreach Manager for the City of Knoxville, share their passion for fostering relationships and opportunities for companies that qualify as a Disadvantage Business Enterprises (DBE). Through their wealth of experience, learn how to qualify as a DBE, become eligible for consideration for projects, and tap into a multitude of beneficial programs. Guest in this Episode Mentioned in this Episode Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Alan Jones’ DBE Presentation to the MKAA Board of Commissioners History of the Department of Transportation DBE Program East Tennessee Purchasing Association Diversity Business Alliance, which is made up of the following eight agencies:  City of Knoxville Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority Knox County University of Tennessee Knoxville’s Community Development Corp. Blount County  Public Building Authority Knoxville Utilities Board  TDOT’s DBE Certification Process  More than 800 vendors are certified through TDOT’s process 4th Annual (Virtual) Diversity Business Expo: March 4, 2021 Tennessee Veterans Business Association  Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post How TYS & Local Municipalities are ‘Leveling the Playing Field’ for Minority-Owned Businesses appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description It’s a new year, and we’re diving into another year of aviation-related podcast topics for your listening and learning pleasure. From new flights launching soon to what to expect when you enter the airport terminal building, this 20 minute episode will get you up to speed with what has been happening at TYS and what you can expect the next time you travel. Mentioned in this Episode McGhee Tyson Airport Statistics Flights Schools at Downtown Island Airport Photos: Long-term Parking Lot Improvement Project  TDOT Alcoa Highway Construction Project Hunt Road Bridge is Now Open! MKAA Appoints New Chairman and Vice-Chairman Allegiant Resumes Seasonal Flights American Resumes Service to MIA & DCA COVID Travel Updates on FlyKnoxville.com CDC Travel Planner Tool Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post Discussing What’s Upcoming and the Unknowns for 2021 at TYS appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Travelers have a lot of questions these days about what to expect at the airport and when onboard an airplane. In this episode, we answer 20+ of those frequently asked questions.  We don’t just answer them— we take a deep dive into the questions with six different airport experts. From new flights, to runway construction, the REAL ID deadline, and updated concessionaire hours, you’ll learn it all after listening to these quick interviews. Guest in this Episode   Mentioned in this Episode Allegiant Air offers nonstop service to Punta Gorda. Pre-pandemic at TYS: 28 nonstop destinations– currently have 24 nonstop destinations Pre-pandemic at TYS: three years of consecutive passenger growth– current passenger numbers are down approximately 55% Predicting a little under 1 million annual passengers in 2020, compared to 2.5 million passengers in 2019 Allegiant Air offers nonstop service to Boston. Differences between the Short Term, Long Term, and Economy Parking Lots Taxi Companies available at TYS Hand sanitizing stations are available at every gate and restroom at TYS. Complimentary masks are available at the Information Booth in Baggage Claim. Runway Construction Project Completion Date: (no later than) September/October 2021 Rental Cars available at TYS Current Concessionaire hours:  Ruby Tuesday’s: 7am-7pm (or last departing flight) daily Starbucks: Monday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday: 4:30am-6:00pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday: 4:30am-12:00pm Quizno’s: Monday: closed Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday: 8:00am-3:00pm Thursday, Sunday: 6:00am-6:00pm Friday: 8:00am-6:00pm Tennessee Marketplace (post-security gift shop): 4:30am-8:30pm (or last departing flight) daily Smoky Mountain Travel Mart (pre-security gift shop): Monday, Friday, Sunday: 9:00am-4:00pm Cinnabon and Pizzeria Uno are currently closed Ruby Tuesday’s recent bankruptcy announcement is not currently impacting operations at TYS.  State air travel restrictions Donations put in the donations box beside the bear in front of the fountain benefit Friends of the Smokies. REAL ID Deadline: October 1, 2021 Learn more about REAL ID from our previous podcast episode Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post You Asked, Experts Answer: 20+ Q&As about Air Travel & TYS appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Along with airlines and airports across the country, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is having to adapt its security checkpoint procedures in order to comply with current pandemic protocols. TSA’s new campaign, ‘Stay Healthy. Stay Secure.’, ensures travelers’ safety and security continue to be the number one priority by enforcing additional policies, such as social distancing, contactless identification verification, plastic shielding, and more. In this episode, Mark Howell, the regional spokesperson for TSA, shares how you can best-prepare for air travel right now, as well as what you’ll need to know for traveling in the future (i.e. REAL ID). Guest in this Episode Mark Howell is the Regional Spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration covering airports in Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Mentioned in this Episode TSA Checkpoint Travel Numbers for 2020 and 2019 “TSA Administrator Pekoske announces ‘Stay Healthy. Stay Secure.’ campaign prior to the Independence Day holiday weekend” Video: “Stay Healthy. Stay Secure.” Current TSA PreCheck Average Wait Time: 1 minute Mark’s advice for traveling during the pandemic: plan ahead! “TSA: What to Know Before You Go” TSA is allowing one liquid hand sanitizer container, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in carry-on bags that passengers will need to remove from their bags before screening.  ‘What Can I Bring?’ Tool  New REAL ID Deadline: October 1, 2021 REAL ID Requirements TSA has seen a decrease in passenger volumes, but an increase in the rate of firearms found at the checkpoints nationwide Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post TSA Update: ‘Stay Healthy. Stay Secure’ + REAL ID appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Airlines are taking major steps forward in preparing their aircraft for travel during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, we speak with Hilarie Grey, Managing Director of Corporate Communications for Allegiant Air, as she explains how her airline is ‘going the distance for health and safety’. After listening to her commentary, you will be an expert in all-things air filtration, antimicrobial protectant, and more.  Guest in this Episode Hilarie Grey is the Managing Director of Corporate Communications for the Allegiant Travel Company.     Mentioned in this Episode Travel Pulse: “Top 10 North American Airlines for COVID-19 Traveler Safety Measures” Current travel mini-trend: people traveling to national parks and visiting open spaces Typically, Allegiant’s passenger numbers account for 2% of the nationwide TSA throughput numbers. In June 2020, Allegiant accounted for 6-7% of total TSA national traffic, which shows the current strength of leisure travel Allegiant Air was the first airline to require facemarks throughout the entire travel experience.  Allegiant Air offers all travelers a complimentary healthy and safety kit, which includes mask and wipes.  Going the Distance for Health and Safety Allegiant Air now offers nonstop flights from TYS to Boston.  Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post COVID-19 Safety Measures from an Airline’s Perspective: Air Filtration, Antimicrobial Protectant, and More appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Making the decision to travel by air during a pandemic can be stressful. You may be curious about the boarding process or interested in how airlines are handling food and beverage service onboard the airplane. What’s it like going through the security checkpoint or even customs? In this episode, your questions are answered by four different frequent flyers: a pilot, leisure traveler, international traveler, and airport employee. They provide you stories of their recent travel experiences in airports around the world while offering tips on how to prepare for your next flight. Listen to this episode so that when you’re ready to take to the skies, you know what to expect. Guests in this Episode In this episode, we chat with four different people that traveled recently through McGhee Tyson Airport. Interview One: Matt is a pilot for a legacy carrier and has flown frequently during the pandemic both for work and leisure. Interview Two: Brooke is a leisure traveler who flew from TYS to LGA in March.  Interview Three: Jacob flew to Germany in July to surprise his family (pictured: Jacob departing Berlin-Tegel Airport). Interview Four: Tom is an Airport Authority employee and an avid aviation enthusiast. He has flown frequently during the pandemic. Mentioned in this Episode– Travel Tips to Implement During Your Next Flight: Wear a mask! Pack snacks. Don’t crowd the boarding lanes. Sanitize the frequently-touched areas on the aircraft.  Board the plane last so you aren’t crowding others.  Get a window seat for better air circulation.  Turn on the overhead air vent for better air circulation.  Choose a nonstop flight instead of one with connections. Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post Insight and Advice On Traveling During A Pandemic appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description As aircraft return to the skies, McGhee Tyson Airport is beginning to see slow but positive increases in passenger traffic and air cargo operations. In this episode, we are joined by Jim Evans, the MKAA’s Vice President of Marketing & Air Service Development, who is closely monitoring even the slightest changes in aviation. In addition, listeners will learn about what TYS is doing to provide a safe airport travel environment. Guests in this Episode In this episode, we are joined by Jim Evans, Vice President of Marketing and Air Service Development. He has been with the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA) for 13 years and has been in the aviation industry for more than 40 years.    Mentioned in this Episode Previous Podcast Episode: Special Edition: COVID-19- The Pandemic’s Impact on TYS and the Aviation Industry Allegiant Air launches NEW nonstop flights to:  Chicago, IL: Chicago Midway International Airport Houston, TX: William P. Hobby Airport Austin, TX: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Allegiant Air resumes seasonal service to:  Las Vegas, NV: McCarran International Airport Denver, CO: Denver International Airport Baltimore, MD/ Washington D.C.: Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport Destin, FL: Destin- Fort Walton Beach Airport  FlyKnoxville.com: COVID-19 Update “Frontier Airlines to Implement Airport Temperature Screenings EffectiveJune 1” FedEx and UPS handled 6,665,621 pounds of cargo at TYS in March 2020 Flyknoxville.com – Statistics “Airlines Struggle to Balance Scheduling Fewer Flights With More Travelers Seeking Social Distance” “The Airline Business Is Terrible. It Will Probably Get Even Worse.” Consolidated March 2020 Statistics:           Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post Fluctuations of Passenger Travel and Air Cargo at TYS During COVID-19 appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Over the course of two months, daily operations in the aviation industry quickly ground to a halt due to the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. The effects were felt in airports around the globe. In this episode, we discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on McGhee Tyson Airport as well as other US airports from the perspective of industry experts.  Guests in this Episode In this episode, we are joined by Patrick Wilson, President of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA); Trevis Gardner, MKAA Vice President of Operations; and Gwen Basaria, Vice President of Member Experience for the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).   Patrick Wilson, A.A.E., is president of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA), which owns and operates both McGhee Tyson and Downtown Island Airports in Knoxville, TN. In his role, Wilson leads a team of employees whose primary focus is to provide East Tennessee pilots and travelers with a safe, convenient and affordable air travel experience. As a leader in aviation for over 27 years, Wilson is an expert at promoting positive relationships with all airport, airline, government and community leaders.    Trevis Gardner, Vice President of Operations, has been with MKAA for 29 years. Gardner is directly responsible for an operations and maintenance organization division of nearly 100 staff members, and also serves in a leadership role as a senior organization officer as Chief Information Officer and Chief Personnel Officer. Trevis has even served multiple terms in local elected office as member and chairman of the Blount County Board of Education.    As AAAE’s Vice President of Member Experience and the AAAE Foundation, Gwen does more than just delight members (though that’s in her job description!).  Gwen passionately serves as chief member advocate at AAAE; identifying their priorities, developing new benefits and services to meet those needs, and elevating member service standards and satisfaction metrics across the association. She also manages the day-to-day operations of the AAAE Foundation, which has awarded over 3,000 scholarships totaling more than $5 million since 1989. (Credit for bios and photos: MKAA  and AAAE) Mentioned in this Episode TYS is open and operating essential fights that are crucial to the success of our nation. Now more than ever, TYS air cargo is playing an important role in providing supplies to those at home and in the medical field in our region. CARES Act – Airports Timeline of historic events that have impacted the aviation industry: 2001 –> 9/11, 2003 –> SARS, 2008 –> Recession, 2020 –> COVID-19 The average number of daily passengers has significantly decreased at TYS. The normal average of passengers per day is 4500, but we are currently seeing just 200 passengers per day.  TYS hosts two Maintenance and Repair Organizations (MRO), Endeavor Air Maintenance and Express Jet Maintenance, that thoroughly inspect aircraft and perform maintenance on aircraft. Having these two MROs is another great reason that airlines are choosing to park their aircraft at TYS. Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post Special Edition: COVID-19- The Pandemic’s Impact on TYS and the Aviation Industry appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Airport websites have to meet the informational expectations of a lot of user groups. From novice travelers to seasoned frequent fliers, the website has to be easy to use and function for all parties. This episode explores the meticulous process McGhee Tyson Airport went through to develop their brand new website. Listen as Moxley Carmichael’s Charley Sexton, Creative Director, John McCulley, Senior Web Developer, and Katrina Roberts, Graphic & Digital Media Designer, share their expertise in how to design an effective website, especially one with a multitude of user groups.   Guests in this Episode In this episode, we are joined by three employees from Moxley Carmichael, a full-service communication agency located right here in East Tennessee. Charley Sexton, Creative Director, has been with Moxley Carmichael since 2001 and works directly on creative department projects, as well as manages graphic designers, web designers and developers, social media staff and production vendors. He was recognized as ambassador of the year in 2015 and in 2016, he was recognized in the Greater Knoxville Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list. John McCulley, Senior Web Developer, is a full stack developer and has been developing websites and apps since 2005. John is a popular and experienced speaker who has been featured at CodeStock, the Knoxville American Marketing Association conference and Code TN. He makes regular appearances on local television stations to discuss digital media and technology. Katrina Roberts, Graphic & Digital Media Designer, joined the staff of Moxley Carmichael as a graphic and digital media designer in 2016. Katrina was on staff at The Daily Beacon throughout her college career at The University of Tennessee and was a two-time recipient of the Tennessee AP College Award for Best News Graphic Design/Illustration.   (Credit for bios and photos: Moxley Carmichael) Mentioned in this Episode Moxley Carmichael: full-service communication agency info@moxleycarmichael.com 865-544-0088 Our New Website: flyknoxville.com RFP: Request For Proposal ADA Compliancy The audience of airport websites include everyone. Therefore, we must ensure that every audience is taken care of and can access all of the information on our website. The new website is compliant for both visually and hearing impaired. The website also works with most all screen readers and paralysis tools. The website can easily be translated into Spanish by clicking the option in the header. The entire website can be translated in over 100 different languages using Google Translate. Ground Transportation #1 Most visited page Find information on ride sharing, including walking directions to the ride share pick-up location on this page. TSA Wait Time provided on the home page, powered by the MyTSA app. Real time parking information on the home page, as well as rates and directions. Easily apply online for jobs and subscribe to receive new job postings on the Jobs @ TYS page. Be sure to check out our time-lapse website header at 12 a.m., 5 a.m., 8 a.m., 12 p.m., 5 p.m., & 8 p.m.   Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post Designing a Website for ALL Audiences appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Not only does McGhee Tyson Airport see constant commercial and general aviation traffic, military aviation plays a large role in the overall operations at TYS as well.  In this episode, we speak with the Wing Commander of the 134th Air Refueling Wing, Colonel M. Lee Harley, Jr. and learn about their global, state, and local missions. From talking about the 134th Air Refueling Wing’s history and its $246 million annual economic impact, to hearing about how they operate their ‘flying gas station’, this episode introduces you to military aviation and the people and aircraft that make each mission successful. Guest in this Episode Colonel M. Lee Hartley, Jr. is the Commander of the 134th Air Refueling Wing, Tennessee Air National Guard. A native of Knoxville, Tennessee, Colonel Hartley graduated from Doyle High School in 1987 and received a congressional appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. Following graduation and commissioning in 1991, he attended Undergraduate Pilot Training at Laughlin Air Force Base, TX and earned his wings in October 1992. Colonel Hartley has flown aerial refueling missions supporting Operations Northern Watch, Deliberate Forge, Icelandic Air Defense and over 60 combat missions supporting for Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Freedom Sentinel, and Inherent Resolve. Additionally,  Colonel  Hartley has  deployed  to  locations including: Incirlik AB, Turkey, Istres, France, Rhein Mein AB, Germany, RAF Mildenhall AB, England, Manas AB, Kyrgyzic Republic, Al Udeid AB, Qatar, and Camp Marmal, Afghanistan. From June 2006 – April 2007, Colonel Hartley was an initial cadre Instructor Pilot for the 134th ARW conversion to the KC-135R. (Credit for bio and photo: 134th ARW) Mentioned in this Episode The Mission of the 134th Air Refueling Wing: Federal: Support Rapid Global Mobility and Sustainment by providing world class personnel, vital Air Refueling and Airlift capabilities for contingency response and sustained combat operations State: Provide personnel and equipment to protect life and property during emergency response operations as directed by the Governor of Tennessee and the Adjutant General ‘Miracle on 134th Street: The Hartley Edition’  TNANG Orange Hangar: KC-135 Aircraft  134th Air Refueling Wing (ARW): the ‘host unit’ for the TN Air National Guard Base 134th ARW employs 1,000 people, with 1/3 being full-time staff Humanitarian Response Economic Impact of the 134th: $4.7 million per week or $246 million annually  Smoky Mountain Air Show Santa Cops in partnership with the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Pilot for a Day in partnership with the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post 134th Air Refueling Wing: Delivering ‘Beans, Beds, & Bullets’ appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Airports are always striving to offer amenities that will make a passenger’s travel experience more enjoyable and less stressful. McGhee Tyson Airport just opened a new airport amenity for East Tennessee travelers, but more specifically for traveling nursing mothers. This new amenity, a Mamava pod, offers a private area for mothers to breastfeed or pump while inside the airport terminal building. In this episode, we hear from a Mamava executive about the company’s history, their current products, and what ‘mamas’ can expect when utilizing this new airport feature.  Guest in this Episode Nicci Micco is the Vice President of Marketing for Mamava, the inventor of freestanding lactation pods and the (free) Mamava app, which helps moms find thousands of pumping and breastfeeding-friendly locations—never a bathroom!—on the go. Mentioned in this Episode The History of Mamava 2006 Article in the NY Times by Jodi Kantor: “On the Job, Nursing Mothers Find a 2-Class System” 2010: Fair Labor Standards Act created a business case for the company 2013: First pod was placed in the Burlington Airport  Mamava App Mamava Solo, newest product  Current Statistics: 156 Mamava Pods in 61 airports around the world Partnership with Medela: New Moms’ Healthy Returns Travelers and (LGA) Airport Employees leave encouraging notes in the pods for mothers  Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post Newest Amenity at TYS: A Mamava Pod appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description A lot has happened over the years at McGhee Tyson Airport.  From the kick off of the 1982 World’s Fair, to the roaring engines of the first jumbo jets to enter the market, to the aftermath of 9/11, TYS has continued adapt to meet the challenges it has faced. Listen to long-time airport employees as they discuss how the airport has changed and what they see on the horizon for aviation in our community. Guest in this Episode Larry Eastridge is a Lieutenant at the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA). He has been with the MKAA for 24 years. Captain Drew Smothers is  a Public Safety Supervisor at the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA). He has been with the MKAA for 25 years. Gina Caughron is an Accounts Receivable Specialist at the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA). She has been with the MKAA for 31 years. Trevis Gardner is the Vice President of Operations at the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA). He has been with the MKAA for 30 years. Mentioned in this Episode Mentioned in Interview with Larry Eastridge & Drew Smothers Experience at the Tennessee Air National Guard Base Lone Star Airlines  Cherokee Aviation Microburst  Previous Podcast Episode Referenced: FIDS, BIDS, and WiFI, Oh My! Everbridge System Mentioned in Interview with Gina Caughron Did you know MKAA used to own more than 20 houses around airport property? Gina has the opportunity to act as the ‘landlord’ on behalf of MKAA. Ground Transportation Arts in the Airport  In-House Advertising The ‘Ride Sharing‘ effect at airports Mentioned in Interview with Trevis Gardner 1997-2000 Airport Terminal Rennovation Smoky Mountain Air Show Local parade participation Airfield Modernization Program 1978: MKAA was established as a result of airline regulation All interviews discuss the change in the airport before and after 9/11  Music in this Episode Birdy by KV https://soundcloud.com/kvmusicprod Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/dSCbsObNJo0 The post Inside this Episode: 140 Years of McGhee Tyson Airport Experience appeared first on From the Runway Up.