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Drones are changing the way industries work—and airports are no exception. In this episode of From the Runway Up, Becky and Caitlin talk with Katie Ryan, an airside operations specialist at the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority, about the rapidly evolving world of unmanned aircraft.
Katie explains what drones are being used for today, from inspections and construction monitoring to public safety and emergency response. She also breaks down why drones and airports can be a dangerous combination when operators aren’t properly trained or authorized.
The conversation covers FAA rules, drone certifications, Remote ID, airspace restrictions and what happens when an unauthorized drone is detected near an airport. Listeners will also learn how recreational drone operators can get started and when a Part 107 certification is required.
Looking ahead, Katie shares her vision for the future of drone technology—including package delivery, air taxis and the growing career opportunities in autonomous and uncrewed systems.
And what about McGhee Tyson Airport? Katie gives listeners a look at the early stages of developing a drone program at TYS and how the airport is learning from other airports already using this technology.
In this episode:
- What exactly qualifies as a drone—and why the FAA considers them aircraft
- How airports can use drones for inspections and construction
- Drones as a tool for emergency response and public safety
- Why flying a drone near an airport can be extremely dangerous
- Understanding drone airspace restrictions and the 400-foot limit
- FAA authorization and the process for approved airport drone operations
- Remote ID: the “license plate for the sky”
- What can happen when an unauthorized drone enters airport airspace
- Recreational drone flying vs. flying for compensation
- How drones are creating new education and career opportunities
- The future of drone delivery and air taxis
- Where McGhee Tyson’s own drone program stands today
Katie also encourages anyone interested in the industry—especially students—to stay curious, explore the possibilities and look for opportunities to get involved. The technology is evolving quickly, and there are still countless applications that haven’t even been discovered yet.