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/

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