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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.

Episode Description Whether it’s assisting travelers in medical emergencies, training for an aircraft rescue and firefighting simulation, or assisting in Presidential visits, the Department of Public Safety at McGhee Tyson Airport is critical to passenger safety and the continuous operations of the airport. In this episode, hear from Chief Tom Aiken as he shares the training and experience it takes to be a police, fire, and medically-trained airport officer. Guest in this Episode Tom Aiken is the Director of the Department of Public Safety at the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA). He has been with the MKAA for 40 years. Mentioned in this Episode MKAA Public Safety Officers are certified in three disciplines: police, fire, and medical response Looking at the airport through the perspective of ‘before and after 9/11’ MKAA is a signatory to the State Mutual Aid Assistance Act Previous Podcast Episode Referenced: Special Edition: Airport Emergency Response Exercise Chief Aiken’s favorite memories over the past 40 years:  Planning and implementing six (6!) air shows Hosting elected dignitaries; He remembers having both Air Force One and Air Force Two on property at the same time during a campaign visit Fire trucks: Rosenbauer Panthers used trucks for assistance during the 2012 mulch fires in Knoxville   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 Ensuring Public Safety, One Passenger at a Time appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Managing people, resources and public expectation at one of the nation’s top 100 airports is a full-time job for Patrick Wilson, President of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority.  Daily, he oversees the operation of McGhee Tyson Airport with his eyes focused on the future of air service and needs of the airport’s travelers and guests.  In this episode, hear about Patrick’s first year at TYS, his experiences as an airport president and what he sees in the airport’s future. Guest in this Episode Patrick Wilson, A.A.E., is president of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA). Prior to coming to the MKAA, he served as president of the Tri-Cities Airport in Blountville, TN. Wilson received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and earned a Master of Business Administration in Aviation and Aerospace Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida. Mentioned in this Episode McGhee Tyson Airport’s Economic Impact: 3,500 airport-wide employees November 30, 2019: Busiest Day Ever at McGhee Tyson Airport Referenced Previous Podcast Episode: Celebrities, Crews, and Construction: How the Airport Hilton Continues to Adapt with Aviation Referenced Previous Podcast Episode: 36 Years in Less than 36 Minutes  Over three years, McGhee Tyson Airport has seen a 30% increase in passenger traffic “Airlines don’t create growth, they follow it.” 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 Personal Insights on TYS From Its Top Executive appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Commercial airplanes are very similar to cars– not in size, but in the fact that they require routine maintenance and safety checks. In this episode, learn how Endeavor Air plans and performs routine and emergency maintenance on Delta’s Bombardier CRJ 200, 700, and 900 fleet. James McKinley, Base Manager for Endeavor Air at McGhee Tyson Airport, explains the detailed process they undertake to keep their aircraft flying safely.  Guest in this Episode James (Jay) McKinley is the Base Manager for Endeavor Air at McGhee Tyson Airport. He has been in the aircraft mechanic industry for 27 years. Mentioned in this Episode Endeavor Air: a wholly-owned subsidiary of Delta Air Lines ExpressJet Part 135 Operator: an operator provides air transportation of persons/property for compensation or hire Contour Aviation Delta fleet worked on at Endeavor: Bombardier CRJ 200 Bombardier CRJ 700 Bombardier CRJ 900 Three Ways to Get into the Aircraft Mechanics Industry: Military A&P School (closest one is in Morristown, TN) OTJ (aka On the Job Training) MRO, aka maintenance repair organization Did You Know: Airplanes are required to be inspected at least every three days, but in most cases, mechanical inspections happen daily.  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 Aircraft Maintenance: The Intricacies of Keeping Commercial Aircraft Safe appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Thanksgiving kicks off the busiest time of year at airports around the U.S. and McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is no different. With the increase in passenger traffic, TYS offers unique programs to entertain and educate travelers. One program in particular, ChariTrees, highlights local nonprofit organizations and allows them to share their message and mission to the travelers of East Tennessee. In this episode, learn about the unique airport programs available during the holiday season and hear from two nonprofit organizations, Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee and Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee, about how they are involved in the hustle and bustle of holiday travel.  Guest in this Episode Brent Waugh  (left) is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee Elaine Streno (right) is the Executive Director of Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee             Mentioned in this Episode For Packing Tips: TSA’s ‘What Can I Bring?’ Tool  Sounds of the Season Caroling Program at TYS ChariTrees at TYS Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) BBBS is celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2020 Goal: Make 1,000 Matches!  BBBS of America Volunteer with BBBS  Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee Feeds 1.1 million people a month Feeding America Senior Feeding Program Partners with ETHRA Mobile Food Pantry Food Deserts  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 Full Flights, Full Hearts: The Busy Holiday Travel Season at TYS appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description While general aviation (GA) might not be the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of aviation, did you know that there are actually more registered GA aircraft than commercial aircraft in the U.S.? In this episode, we introduce listeners to Downtown Island Airport (DKX), the GA airport in Downtown Knoxville, and hear about the different type of aircraft and operations you can witness on the Island– military, law enforcement, and experimental aircraft just to name a few.  Guest in this Episode Jennifer Giffin  (left) is the Operations Manager for the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority and has worked at MKAA for six years. Justin Lackey (right) works as an Operations Specialist and has been with the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority for 13 years.             Mentioned in this Episode Downtown Island Airport (DKX) DKX-Based Tenants: Knox Flight Training Center Remote Area Medical Knox County Sheriff’s Aviation Unit Knoxville Flyers Club Experimental Aircraft Association Ageless Aviation Storage Options for Pilots at DKX T-Hangars Condo Hangars Community Hangars Shade Hangar Tie-Down Options Fixed Base Operator at TYS: TAC Air 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 General Aviation at the Island appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description What do FIDS, BIDS, shared tenant services, access control, and WiFi have in common? They are technology services provide by the Airport Authority that passengers couldn’t travel without. In this episode, hear from MKAA’s technology staff about their current responsibilities, the obstacles they face working in an airport environment, and must-have apps to help ease your travel experiences. Guest in this Episode Tony Clark (left) is the Technology Manager for the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority and has worked at MKAA for 15 years. Justin McClure (right) works as an Airport Systems Technician and has been with the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority for four years.             Mentioned in this Episode Shared Tenant Services Data Network, Radio Systems, and Audio Systems  Weather Support Systems  Access Control  Myrtle Beach Airport Common Use Gates “10 Airport Using Beacons to Take Passenger Experience to the Next Level” Photos from this 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 FIDS, BIDS, and WiFi, Oh My! appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Regardless of the sport or the destination, the University of Tennessee Athletic Department relies heavily on private charter flights to get student athletes to away games or competitions in a safe and timely manner. In this episode, David Elliott, Associate Athletic Director for Event Management at the University of Tennessee, discusses the planning and coordination it takes to schedule transportation for UT’s student athletes. Elliott also mentions some of his most memorable charter flights. Spoiler: one of his favorite flights was to Tempe, Arizona in 1998.  Guest in this Episode David Elliott is the Associate Athletic Director for Event Management and Team Travel for the University of Tennessee. He has been in this role since 1993.             Mentioned in this Episode UT’s Charter Contract is currently with Delta Air Lines  Video of UT Football Team flying to Florida  The Battle at Bristol  National Championship in 1998: Chartered approximately 1,500 people to the Phoenix area 2005 LSU Game during Hurricane Katrina University of Tennessee’s Sports Management Program Coordinating the 134th Air Refueling Wing’s 2019 Fly Over  Did you know that the University of Tennessee’s charter flight planning begins in February for fall sports?  Photos from this 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 How the University of Tennessee Athletic Department Utilizes Private Charter Flights appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Inclement weather in the form of rain, snow, sleet and strong winds can have a significant impact on airport operations. Learn how McGhee Tyson Airport handles turbulent weather in East Tennessee as well as how they lend a helping hand when natural disasters strike.  Join Trevis Gardner, Senior Vice President of Operations, and Mike Porter, Airport Operations Specialist, as they discuss TYS weather operations, SEADOG and recent operational efforts to assist airports during Hurricane Dorian. Guest in this Episode Trevis Gardner (left) is the Vice President of Operations at the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority. He has worked in varying roles at TYS for more than 30 years. Mike Porter (right) works as an Operations Specialist at TYS and has been with the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority for five years.               Mentioned in this Episode Video of Snow Blower in action at TYS HURREVAC at TYS for Hurricane Doriane Southeast Airports Disaster Operations Group (aka SEADOG) AirFrance lands at TYS Did you know that if there is 1/2 inch of slush on the runway system that the airport has to shut down its operations? Photos from this 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 IROPS, SEADOG, HURREVAC: Impacts of Inclement Weather at Airports appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Ever wonder how airport security technology is selected? In this episode, Scott Broyles, President & CEO of National Safe Skies Alliance, discusses the processes and research that go into the selection of security technologies found at airports today. From active shooters to perimeter breaches, this security expert shares how his organization is working to help airports proactively prepare for the next big threat. Guest in this Episode Scott Broyles is the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Safe Skies’ Alliance.  He has more than 30 years of experience in the aviation industry, serving in diverse security and management positions. Mentioned in this Episode History of the National Safe Skies Alliance Airport Security System Integrated Support Testing (ASSIST) program Program for Applied Research in Airport Security (PARAS) Biometric technology at airports: “Biometric screening at airports is spreading fast…” Current Concerning Threats: Active Shooter Example: FLL Shooting: “The day a shooter opened fire at Fort Lauderdale airport — and what’s happened since” Insider Threat Example: ATL/NY Gun Smuggling: “Former airport baggage handler gets prison for gun smuggling” Perimeter Security  Example: San Jose wheel well: “Stowaway: San Jose airport security scrutinized after boy’s flight to Maui in plane’s wheel well” McGhee Tyson Airport’s Aviation Academy  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 Using Research and Technology to Combat Aviation Threats appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Every day millions of travelers pass through airports around the world and often use directional signage and other design elements to successfully navigate the terminal building. From wayfinding to multi-faceted branding campaigns, this episode explores the strategic thought process behind airport graphic design and how each facility works to make the public’s visual experience extraordinary. Guests in this Episode Alexandra Bradley (left) is the Brand and Experience Manager at Asheville Regional Airport (AVL). She is a graduate from Appalachian State University and has been with AVL since 2014. Alex Cruz (right) is the Graphic Design Specialist at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). He graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2012 and has been with TYS since 2017. Mentioned in this Episode Findings from the ‘Airport Socialites’ Informal Facebook Poll From Our Interview with Alex from AVL: Music on the Fly AVL’s Most Recent Surprise Passenger Appreciation Event ‘You’re One in a Million’ (photo shown below) From Our Interview with Alex from TYS:  Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) UT Athletics TYS New Mobile App (photo shown below) Photos of Graphic Examples Mentioned in this Episode AVL’s One in a Million Campaign TYS’ New Mobile App 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 Airport Branding: It’s More Than Just A Plane Picture appeared first on From the Runway Up.