From The Runway Up: An Airport and Aviation Podcast

In this episode of From the Runway Up, we welcome back Scott Broyles, President and CEO of the National Safe Skies Alliance (Safe Skies), to discuss how this unique nonprofit organization helps shape the future of aviation security. From insider threats and AI tools to the growing importance of situational awareness and risk mitigation, Scott takes us inside the mission of Safe Skies—and why its work matters now more than ever. We also chat about McGhee Tyson Airport’s growth, the value of collaboration in testing new technologies, and why community education programs like the Aviation Academy are so important. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just aviation-curious, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the safety measures happening behind the scenes to keep us all secure. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Safe Skies supports airports across the U.S. through independent security assessments and applied research. Why insider threats are among the most complex challenges in aviation security. The role of machine learning and AI in detecting anomalies in airport environments. How collaboration between airports and agencies leads to smarter, more adaptive security. Why the Aviation Academy is a must-join for Knoxville-area residents Behind-the-scenes efforts that keep your airport experience smooth and safe Resources & Links: Learn more about the National Safe Skies Alliance: https://www.sskies.org Explore or apply to the Aviation Academy: https://flyknoxville.com/airport-authority/aviation-academy The post Behind the Scenes with the National Safe Skies Alliance: Aviation Security & Innovation appeared first on From the Runway Up.

In this episode, hosts Becky and Caitlin discuss the Tuskegee Next program—a nonprofit initiative dedicated to empowering underrepresented youth through aviation. The conversation highlights how the program builds on the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen to provide flight training, career development, and networking opportunities for aspiring pilots and aviation professionals. Key Topics & Segments: Spotlight on Tuskegee Next: Discussion of the program’s origins, inspired by the historical legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, and its mission to bridge the gap for underrepresented youth in aviation.  Guests & Program Details: Angel Attawia (Interim Executive Director) Jairo Vargas (Interim Program Director & Program Graduate)  On the Mission of Tuskegee Next: “Our mission for Tuskegee Next is that we empower the next generation of aviators, not only to transform themselves, but transform their communities.”  “It’s hard to be what you can’t see, and our main goal and mission of [Aviation Day] is showing kids within the community who are underrepresented that there are other options out there for them.”  On the Legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen: “The history of the Tuskegee Airmen—they were the first group of African American pilots commissioned by the Air Force. They flew over 1,500 combat missions and had the lowest number of bombers lost, which is incredible.”  “The original Tuskegee Airmen helped commission our program and gave us the Tuskegee Next name.”  On the Impact of the Program: “For an average person to get their private pilot license, it takes about four to six months. Our cadets do it in eight weeks.”  “We have a 97% success rate within our program.”  “It’s not just about creating great pilots—it’s about workforce development, life training skills, career development, networking, and mentorship.”  Resources & How to Get Involved: Visit tuskegeenext.org. Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Tuskegeenext Instagram: @tuskegeenext LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tuskegee-next-foundation/ Annual Events: Aviation Day in Chicago (July 10) and plans to host a future event in Knoxville in 2026. The post Empowering Future Aviators with Tuskegee Next appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into the evolution of air service at McGhee Tyson Airport and its significant role in East Tennessee’s economy. Featuring industry experts Bill Swelbar and MKAA’s own, Jim Evans, we discuss how the airport has adapted to shifting airline strategies, developed strong partnerships with carriers, and fostered economic growth through increased tourism and travel options. From the complexities of attracting new airlines, like Southwest, to the potential for international flights, this episode uncovers the strategic planning and partnerships behind successful air service. Key Topics Covered: Airline Scheduling Trends How airlines optimize schedules based on demand patterns. The variability in daily flights, from 100 midweek to 150 on weekends. Regional Competitiveness McGhee Tyson’s ranking among top U.S. airports for seat growth. Comparison to other dynamic regional airports like Huntsville, AL, and Knoxville’s “punching above its weight” status. Southwest Airlines and Market Challenges The potential for Southwest Airlines in Knoxville and its evolving priorities. The rise of ultra-low-cost carriers like Allegiant, Frontier, and Avelo, providing affordable options and boosting inbound tourism. International Service Outlook Current limitations due to the absence of a customs facility. Future possibilities for leisure-focused international flights to destinations like Cancun or the Caribbean. Tourism and Economic Impact How air service drives significant revenue for the local and state economy. The role of tourism as Tennessee’s second-largest industry, supported by inbound flights and partnerships with local tourism boards. Future Growth Opportunities Prospects for expanding service to high-demand markets like the West Coast. Collaboration with tourism organizations to identify new routes and destinations. Key Quotes: “Knoxville is punching way above its weight when it comes to air service growth.” – Bill Swelbar “The ultra-low-cost carriers we’ve attracted bring people to Knoxville, creating a significant economic impact.” – Jim Evans “Our frequent service to major hubs makes international travel easily accessible for our community.” – Jim Evans Resources Mentioned: Visit Swelbar-Zhongair Consultancy Visit FromTheRunwayUp.com for previous episodes and air service reports. Explore McGhee Tyson Airport’s routes and travel options: FlyKnoxville.com. Previous Episodes About “Air Service” Pick Me! Pick Me! An Inside Look at Recruiting Allegiant Air to TYS ‘See You in the Skies’: An Airline’s Take on Air Service Next Episode Preview: Tune in next month as we discuss flight schools and the growing interest in learning to fly. Perfect for those pursuing a New Year’s resolution or checking off a bucket list item! Connect with Us: Subscribe to From the Runway Up on your favorite podcast platform. Follow McGhee Tyson Airport on social media for the latest updates. Thank you for listening, and we’ll see you next time on From the Runway Up! The post In the Winner’s Box: Air Service at TYS appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Description Did you know that McGhee Tyson Airport is just one hour away from the most visited national park in the US? More than 12 million people visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park each year, generating a more than $1 billion economic impact for our region. In this episode, we speak with Caitlin Worth of the National Park Service as she shares the parks’ history, secrets, and future developments. Guests in this Episode Caitlin Worth is the acting management assistant and public affairs specialist at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Mentioned in this Episode Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) National Park Service (NPS) 130 species of trees in the Smokies Sugarlands Visitor Center Careers with the NPS: start with a volunteership or intership The TomCast with Tom Stanley Tips for a successful trip to the Smokies: Plan ahead! Visit the park’s website for active closures and alerts Treat wildlife with respect! Expect there to be traffic! Annually, the GSNMP generates an economic impact of more than $1 billion and contributes to more than 14,000 jobs in our region There is 73 miles of the Appalachian Trail in the GSMNP– hikers call it their ‘favorite section’ of the AT 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 and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Where Modern Transportation Meets Nature’s Wonders 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 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.