McGhee Tyson Airport is growing faster than ever — and Knoxville travelers are feeling it.

In this episode, we sit down to talk about the remarkable growth of TYS, including record passenger numbers, the long-awaited arrival of Southwest Airlines, and the massive expansion now underway to prepare for what comes next.

We discuss what it really means for TYS to be one of the fastest-growing airports in the country, why Southwest finally chose Knoxville after more than two decades of community effort, and what early demand is telling airport leaders about the future.

We also dig into the airport’s long-term “Flight Plan,” including the $180 million parking garage, six new gates, potential new routes and airlines, and what the airport could look like five to eight years from now.

Finally, we explore what’s driving the surge in passengers — population growth, tourism, business travel, or all three — and what travelers should know about parking, busy travel periods, and navigating TYS during the expansion.

If you fly through Knoxville, this conversation gives you a look at where TYS has been, why it is growing so quickly, and what’s coming next.

In our inaugural episode, we sit down with University of Tennessee President Randy Boyd to talk about UT’s record-setting growth and what it means for Knoxville and the state of Tennessee. Boyd shares how the university is expanding beyond its traditional campus, investing in major new facilities and athletics, and preparing for a future when many universities are expecting enrollment declines. We also explore the experiences that shaped his leadership — from building Radio Systems and helping launch Tennessee Promise to running for governor and bringing the Smokies back to Knoxville. Plus, we get a more personal look at Boyd through his love of marathon running and his vision for what UT could look like five years from now.

A behind-the-scenes look at Knoxville growth, development, and the commercial real estate shaping our city. First episode launching September 8th!

The Knoxville Blueprint - Launching September 8th