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

Connect & Stay Updated

The post Southwest Lands in Knoxville: Inside the Decision to Join TYS appeared first on From the Runway Up.

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.

The post Ghosts, Gargoyles, and Graves: The Spooky Side of Airports appeared first on From the Runway Up.

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:

Topics Covered:

Resources & Links:

The post Redundancy, Repairs, and RONs: The Secrets of Safe Flight appeared first on From the Runway Up.

Episode Summary:

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:

Key Guests:

The post Planes, Buses, and Bowl Games: Logistics of Tennessee Athletics appeared first on From the Runway Up.

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.

The post Beyond the Exhibit: An American National Zoo Day Spotlight on Zoo Knoxville appeared first on From the Runway Up.

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.

The post Fueling the Future: How Aviation and Education Are Taking Off Together appeared first on From the Runway Up.

In this episode, we dive into the excitement surrounding the launch of Gulf Shores International Airport, a new travel hub already making waves in Alabama and beyond. Our guests reflect on the overwhelmingly positive community response, share behind-the-scenes insights on launching an airport, and look ahead to what’s next for the region.

From expanded air routes and economic development to beach vacations made simpler and more affordable, this episode showcases how aviation can be a true game-changer for a community. You’ll hear how local residents, planners, and travelers alike are embracing the airport—and how it’s shaping the future of Gulf Shores tourism and business.

The post Lifting Off: Gulf Shores’ Commercial Aviation Debut appeared first on From the Runway Up.

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:

The post Behind the Scenes with the National Safe Skies Alliance: Aviation Security & Innovation appeared first on From the Runway Up.

In this episode of From The Runway Up, hosts Becky and Caitlin sit down with Eddie McGaha, Assistant Federal Security Director for TSA, to discuss everything you need to know about Real ID and TSA operations at McGee Tyson Airport. 

With the May 7, 2025, Real ID enforcement deadline quickly approaching, they break down the requirements, how to obtain a Real ID, and why it’s essential for air travel and access to federal facilities. 

Eddie also shares insights into TSA screening procedures, how to best prepare for security checkpoints, and some of the more unusual items TSA agents have encountered. 

Whether you’re a frequent traveler or just planning your next trip, this episode is packed with helpful tips to make your airport experience smooth and stress-free.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Resources Mentioned:

Key Takeaways:

Stay Connected:

The post Real ID 101: What You Need to Know Before the Deadline 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:

Resources & How to Get Involved:

The post Empowering Future Aviators with Tuskegee Next appeared first on From the Runway Up.