The mission of the Aeronautics Division is to provide Tennessee with a quality, integrated aviation system that is safe, efficient, economical, and sensitive to environmental concerns. In fulfilling this commitment, the division actively serves the needs of local communities while providing state government with safe, professional, and courteous flight services in an efficient, comfortable manner.John-Paul ("J.P.") Saalwaechter, P.E.
Director of Aeronautics
John.Saalwaechter@tn.gov
615-741-0780
Aeronautics Office
7335 Centennial Boulevard
Nashville, TN 37209
615-741-3208
What We Do
The TDOT Aeronautics Division supports, promotes, and delivers services that enhance a sustainable, efficient, and safe air transportation system in Tennessee. The division provides financial and technical assistance to publicly owned airport operators for the planning, development, promotion, construction, and operation of public-use airports statewide. Specialized engineering and planning services include aviation planning studies, environmental planning and compliance assistance, airport geographic information system (AGIS) studies, and project design consultation.
Additionally, the division administers and programs both state and federal funding for Airport Capital Improvement Plan (ACIP) projects in accordance with regulatory standards, conducts annual airport safety and maintenance inspections, maintains the statewide airport system plan, promotes aviation education, and provides flight services to all branches of state government.
Tennessee's 76 public-use airports serve as critical components of the state and national transportation networks, linking communities to regional, national, and global markets. The state's central geographic location provides businesses and logistics operations with convenient access to domestic and international commerce. Notably, Tennessee is home to the FedEx World Hub at Memphis International Airport—the nation's and world's busiest cargo airport—and Nashville International Airport, the nation's fastest-growing medium-hub commercial service airport. This infrastructure contributes an estimated $40 billion in total economic activity annually, representing $1.12 billion in associated tax revenues and supporting 220,936 aviation-related jobs. Furthermore, Tennessee's 77 General Aviation airports are integral to the growth of community-based manufacturers and businesses, granting them vital access to global markets.