From The Runway Up: An Airport and Aviation Podcast

McGhee Tyson Airport, Knoxville TN
  • 5.0 (28)
  • AVIATION
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Like a beacon leading a plane to the runway, this podcast guides you through the innerworkings of one of the nation’s fastest-growing airports. In episodes shorter than a flight from Knoxville to Atlanta, join us as we share stories about aviation in East Tennessee.

  1. JAN 26

    A Legacy of Service: Honoring Retired Chief of Public Safety Tom Aiken

    Episode Summary In this special episode of From the Runway Up, hosts Becky and Caitlin sit down with retired Chief of Public Safety W. Tom Aiken to reflect on his extraordinary 46-year career at McGhee Tyson Airport. Chief Aiken shares firsthand stories from decades of aviation safety, from the airport’s earliest years and the 1982 World’s Fair to the sweeping operational changes following September 11, 2001. Hear how airport public safety evolved over time, the leadership philosophy that guided Chief Aiken through moments of crisis and calm, and the deep sense of community that defines East Tennessee. The episode concludes with a moving tribute to Chief Aiken’s retirement, including the dedication of the W. Tom Aiken Public Safety Building and a look ahead to the department’s future leadership. Topics Covered The early days of McGhee Tyson Airport and the creation of the Public Safety Department Transitioning from police and ARFF to an integrated public safety model Aviation security before and after 9/11 Rewriting the airport security program in the immediate aftermath of September 11 East Tennessee’s community response during national crisis Leadership, trust, transparency, and decision-making under pressure The importance of best practices, training, and inter-airport collaboration Reflecting on a 46-year career and the meaning of legacy Honoring Chief Aiken through the dedication of the W. Tom Aiken Public Safety Building Welcoming incoming Chief of Public Safety, Sammy Schaefer About the Guest Tom Aiken joined the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority in 1979 after serving in the United States Air Force as a base law enforcement specialist. Over 46 years, he held multiple leadership roles before serving three decades as Chief and Director of Public Safety. His career spans some of the most transformative moments in aviation safety, leaving a lasting legacy of professionalism, preparedness, and service. Special Recognition This episode includes the reading of an official resolution adopted by the Board of Commissioners honoring Chief Aiken’s career and approving the dedication and naming of the W. Tom Aiken Public Safety Building at McGhee Tyson Airport. The post A Legacy of Service: Honoring Retired Chief of Public Safety Tom Aiken appeared first on From the Runway Up.

    31 min

  2. 12/08/2025

    Airship Aviation: History, Technology, and the Goodyear Legacy

    In this episode of From the Runway Up, Becky and Caitlin take listeners inside one of the most recognizable aircraft in the world—the Goodyear Blimp. When a scheduled Knoxville flyover was canceled, the hosts went straight to the source and sat down with Mike “Doc” Dougherty, Chief Pilot and Operations Manager for Goodyear Airships. Doc shares how he went from airline pilot to one of fewer than a dozen active airship pilots in the U.S., what it takes to fly a blimp, and why these aircraft remain a staple of aviation culture. From technology upgrades to unexpected missions—including disaster relief, scientific research, and even extreme sports—this episode delivers an up-close look at a flying legend. Topics Covered The origins, evolution, and modern role of the Goodyear Blimp Doc’s personal journey into airship aviation What differentiates airship piloting from airline or general aviation careers A behind-the-scenes look at training, crew operations, and maintenance Surprising historical roles: research missions, military coordination, and emergency response What it’s like to fly cross-country, navigate weather, and land a blimp Iconic moments from the blimp’s 100-year legacy The post Airship Aviation: History, Technology, and the Goodyear Legacy appeared first on From the Runway Up.

  3. 11/17/2025

    Southwest Lands in Knoxville: Inside the Decision to Join TYS

    Episode Summary In this milestone episode of From the Runway Up, Becky and Caitlin sit down with Adam DeCaire, Senior Vice President of Network Planning & Network Operations Control at Southwest Airlines, for a long-awaited conversation that East Tennessee travelers have been hoping for: Why Southwest Airlines chose Knoxville. Adam reveals why Southwest chose Knoxville, what the airline looks for when entering a new market, and how Knoxville fits into Southwest’s broader network strategy. From aircraft selection to connection opportunities to the Southwest customer experience, this is the insider conversation Knoxville has been waiting for. Topics Covered The decades-long effort to recruit Southwest Airlines to Knoxville Adam’s personal career story: from throwing bags in Cleveland to leading network planning How airlines evaluate new markets and why Knoxville’s timing finally aligned The importance of UT, tourism, and regional demand in the decision The Southwest aircraft fleet—no regional jets, only Boeing 737s The “Southwest experience,” empowered employees, and customer-first culture What success looks like for the airline and the community Connect & Stay Updated Book flights at Southwest.com Previous Episode about bringing carriers to TYS: In The Winner’s Circle: Air Service at TYS. The post Southwest Lands in Knoxville: Inside the Decision to Join TYS appeared first on From the Runway Up.

    26 min

  4. 10/27/2025

    Ghosts, Gargoyles, and Graves: The Spooky Side of Airports

    In this special Halloween edition of From the Runway Up, Becky and Caitlin take listeners on a spirited journey through the eerie legends, mysterious artwork, and paranormal tales that haunt the aviation world. From Denver International Airport’s infamous blue Mustang—nicknamed “Blucifer”—to underground tunnels, Freemason rumors, and gargoyle guardians, this episode dives into the fascinating myths that surround one of America’s most talked-about airports. Guest Stacey Stegman joins to share how Denver International has embraced its reputation for mystery with creativity and humor—turning conspiracy theories into clever marketing moments. The hosts also swap other spooky airport stories, including grave markers on Savannah’s runway, ghostly encounters at McGhee Tyson’s old terminal, and haunted hangars in Kansas. Whether you’re a skeptic, a believer, or just love a good travel story, this episode will make you see airports in a whole new (and slightly creepier) light. Stories Covered The eerie legend of Denver International Airport’s blue Mustang, “Blucifer”. Freemason symbols, underground tunnels, and the “New World Airport Commission”. Misunderstood art: murals, mining symbols, and gargoyle sculptures with hidden meaning. How Denver turned conspiracy theories into a clever brand strategy. Grave markers in Savannah’s runway and Atlanta’s cemetery beneath Runway 5. Paranormal activity at New Century Air Center in Kansas. McGhee Tyson Airport’s own ghostly passenger from the 1970s terminal. The post Ghosts, Gargoyles, and Graves: The Spooky Side of Airports appeared first on From the Runway Up.

    23 min

  5. 09/29/2025

    Redundancy, Repairs, and RONs: The Secrets of Safe Flight

    Redundancy, Repairs, and RONs: The Secrets of Safe Flight Hosts: Becky & Caitlin, Public Relations, McGhee Tyson Airport Guest: Jay McKinley, General Manager of PSA Airlines’ Maintenance Hangar at TYS Episode Overview: In this episode, we go behind the scenes at McGhee Tyson Airport to explore the world of aviation maintenance with industry veteran Jay McKinley. Jay shares his journey into aviation, the hands-on work of maintaining aircraft, and how he inspires the next generation of aviation professionals. From overnight inspections to safety redundancies on planes, listeners get a window seat into what it takes to keep aircraft safe and reliable. Topics Covered: Jay McKinley’s path into aviation maintenance and his early inspiration PSA Airlines’ operations at McGhee Tyson Airport and the role of overnight maintenance (RONs) Career pathways in aviation maintenance: military, on-the-job training, and Pellissippi State’s program How students and professionals can get involved in aviation through mentorship and training programs Quick-fire insights: black boxes, exit row responsibilities, and aircraft safety redundancies The tight-knit community of maintenance professionals and the importance of teamwork Resources & Links: PSA Airlines Careers: psairlines.com Pellissippi State Aviation Maintenance Program: https://www.pstcc.edu/academics/areas-of-study/aviation/ The post Redundancy, Repairs, and RONs: The Secrets of Safe Flight appeared first on From the Runway Up.

  6. 08/25/2025

    Planes, Buses, and Bowl Games: Logistics of Tennessee Athletics

    Episode Summary: Traveling with college athletics isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s a high-stakes operation that impacts academics, performance, and team morale. In this episode of From the Runway Up, Becky and Caitlin take listeners inside the world of University of Tennessee athletics travel. First, Dr. Catherine Greene of Lady Vols Basketball reveals what it takes to coordinate smooth charter flights, manage NCAA tournament surprises, and keep student-athletes on schedule. Then, Andrew Goodman, Director of Football Operations, explains how moving 200+ people each week demands year-long planning, precise execution, and a steady hand when the unexpected happens. From pizzas delivered on the runway to weather detours and bowl game charters, you’ll hear stories that prove great operations are often invisible—but absolutely essential. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why charter flights are critical for student-athletes’ academic success and physical recovery. How UT staff handle unexpected challenges like COVID-era travel chaos, weather diversions, and NCAA postseason logistics. The differences between basketball and football operations, from small team rosters to 200-person travel parties. The art of contingency planning when your season—and your flight schedule—are on the line. How “success” in operations often means no one notices anything went wrong. A look ahead at McGhee Tyson Airport’s growing role in sports travel, including Southwest Airlines’ arrival as the official airline of the SEC. Key Guests: Dr. Catherine Greene – Executive Director of Basketball Operations & Chief of Staff, Lady Vols Basketball Andrew Goodman – Director of Football Operations, University of Tennessee The post Planes, Buses, and Bowl Games: Logistics of Tennessee Athletics appeared first on From the Runway Up.

    38 min

  7. 07/01/2025

    Beyond the Exhibit: An American National Zoo Day Spotlight on Zoo Knoxville

    Episode Summary: Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes at a zoo? In this episode, we return to Zoo Knoxville for a deeper look at the people, processes, and passion that power one of the most respected conservation-focused zoos in the country. This isn’t just about cute animals (though we’ve got those too). You’ll hear about the expert teams, the intensive animal training programs, and how even aviation logistics play a crucial role in global conservation efforts. From managing a 38-year-old celebrity parrot to preparing gorillas for blood pressure checks, this episode highlights the innovative ways zookeepers work to improve animal welfare every day. ** This episode was recorded on-site at Zoo Knoxville in April 2025. What Happens Behind the Scenes: Meet the animal care and training team—boasting over 300 years of combined experience Learn how animals are trained to participate in their own healthcare, from injections to diagnostic procedures. Discover how keepers maintain their hands-on skills, even if they’re no longer in daily animal care roles. Hear how cross-department collaboration ensures each species—from snakes to sloths—is given expert, individualized attention. How Aviation Supports the Zoo’s Mission: Animal relocation by air for conservation and breeding programs. Emergency medical transport for rare or endangered species. Connecting Knoxville’s zoo to a global network of conservation partners. Links & Resources: Zoo Knoxville Transporting Tigers, Pandas, and Birds Oh My! (Podcast with Zoo Knoxville in 2019) Photos from this episode: The post Beyond the Exhibit: An American National Zoo Day Spotlight on Zoo Knoxville appeared first on From the Runway Up.

  8. 06/23/2025

    Fueling the Future: How Aviation and Education Are Taking Off Together

    Episode Summary: In this episode, we explore how aviation is driving workforce development in East Tennessee. Dr. Patty Weaver from Pellissippi State Community College and Jessica Blitz of Blount Partnership share how a powerful collaboration between education, industry, and local government is creating hands-on career pathways for students—starting as early as middle school. From engine donations by Continental Aerospace to new FAA-certified degree programs, we discuss the innovations helping meet the growing demand for skilled aviation professionals. Plus, hear how other booming fields like healthcare, IT, manufacturing, and construction are being supported through grants, scholarships, and accelerated training efforts. Whether you’re an educator, student, or community member, this episode offers insight into how workforce programs are adapting quickly to meet the future head-on. In This Episode: Launch of Pellissippi State’s aviation maintenance program Industry partnerships and workforce collaboration Early student engagement through school visits and aviation camps Career paths in aviation and beyond: IT, healthcare, manufacturing, and construction Meeting national workforce shortages with local action Links & Resources: Pellissippi State Community College Aviation Technology – https://www.pstcc.edu/academics/areas-of-study/aviation/ Blount Partnership – https://blountpartnership.com/  The post Fueling the Future: How Aviation and Education Are Taking Off Together appeared first on From the Runway Up.

    25 min
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Like a beacon leading a plane to the runway, this podcast guides you through the innerworkings of one of the nation’s fastest-growing airports. In episodes shorter than a flight from Knoxville to Atlanta, join us as we share stories about aviation in East Tennessee.

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