Jackson Regional Airport Named Tennessee’s 2024 Airport of the Year
In a tremendous honor, Jackson Regional Airport has been selected as Tennessee’s 2024 Airport of the Year by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and the Tennessee Division of Aeronautics. Of the 79 public-use airports across the state, including 73 general aviation and 6 commercial service airports, Jackson Regional Airport received the highest recognition for its exceptional growth, safety advancements, and continued impact on the region.
The announcement was made on March 25, 2025, during the Tennessee Airports Conference in Murfreesboro, where members of the Jackson-Madison County Airport Authority and executive staff were in attendance to accept the award.
“This is an incredible honor, and it speaks to the outstanding teamwork and vision shared across our community,” said Steve Smith, Executive Director of Jackson Regional Airport. “This achievement would not have been possible without the support of the City of Jackson, Madison County, the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce, TDOT, and our state leadership—Senator Ed Jackson, Representative John Shaw, and Representative Chris Todd and Governor Bill Lee, as well as Congressman David Kustoff, Senator Marsha Blackburn, and Senator Bill Haggerty —who have all played key roles in making this growth possible.”
Smith highlighted several major milestones that contributed to the airport’s recognition, including the launch of jet service to Atlanta and Chicago through Denver Air Connection, as well as nearly $33 million in facility investments. These investments included the rebuilding of the primary runway, infrastructure enhancements, and a strategic rebranding of the airport’s name to better reflect its regional service area.
“Growth and safety are at the heart of what we do,” Smith added. “To be recognized at the state level confirms that Jackson Regional Airport is not only growing—we’re doing it the right way.”
This prestigious award recognizes Jackson Regional Airport as a statewide leader in innovation, infrastructure, and service, and further cements its role as a vital economic engine for West Tennessee.
About Jackson Regional Airport Jackson Regional Airport proudly serves West Tennessee with both general and commercial aviation services. With a commitment to safety, service, and regional growth, the airport continues to expand its offerings and enhance connectivity for the businesses and communities it serves.
(L to R in the photo attached includes: Josh LeFevre, JMCAA Commissioner – Mark Taylor, JMCAA Vice-Chairman – Rusty Reviere, JMCAA Chairman – Steve Smith, Executive Director – Cindy Melton, Airport Manager – Jimmy Harris, JMCAA Commissioner – Brandon David, Deputy Airport Director. In attendance but not pictured: JMCAA Secretary/Treasurer, Bob Frankland)
