Redundancy, Repairs, and RONs: The Secrets of Safe Flight
From The Runway Up: An Airport and Aviation PodcastShow Notes
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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