The Tennessee Aeronautics Commission (TAC) and TDOT Aeronautics Division recognized excellence in airports in the state with the issuance of awards at the Tennessee Aviation Association’s (TAA) 2025 Airports Conference in Murfreesboro, TN, late last month. The awards are given to commend recipients for their hard work, diligence, and devoted efforts in improving airports, airport safety, and aviation in Tennessee. The awards reflect the respect that the TAC and TDOT Aeronautics have for the many aviation professionals within the state who have dedicated themselves to excellence in aviation and aviation safety.
Airport of the Year: Jackson Regional Airport (MKL)
Jackson Regional Airport (formerly McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport) completed $24,069,613 in projects over the past two years. Jackson Regional Airport also added a new commercial air provider, “Denver Air Connection,” with flights to Atlanta & Chicago. The improvements at Jackson Regional Airport stand as a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Governing Body of the Year: Clarksville-Montgomery County Regional Airport Authority
Over the last 3 years, the Clarksville-Montgomery Regional Airport Authority built seven new hangars and constructed an additional apron using local funds. The airport’s runway was also reconstructed, and additional space for future development was created. The growth at Outlaw Field is a tribute to the Clarksville-Montgomery County Regional Airport Authority and makes them genuinely deserving of the recognition afforded by this award.
Airport Manager of the Year: Dan Cogan – Elizabethton Municipal Airport
Dan Cogan has been the manager at Elizabethton Municipal Airport for more than 17 years. Dan works tirelessly to learn, grow the Airport, and serve the aviation community. He established an airport employee training program to allow employees to work through their aviation ratings at a heavily reduced rate. Over the years, over 10 employees have utilized the program to acquire various ratings, from private pilots to certified flight instructors. Dan is heavily involved in community outreach, fostering aviation enthusiasm within various programs such as the Watauga Eagle Squadron, a program set within the local school that trains and instills a desire to pursue an aviation career. He has managed 38 grants, stewarding $11.6 million in improvements at the Airport. Key involvement in 11 property acquisitions (without a single condemnation), road relocation, and a 12,000 SQF hangar addition, just to name a few. In 2024, the Tennessee Air National Guard awarded the airport for its support during Hurricane Helene’s recovery and relief efforts.
Career Contributions to Aviation: The late George Huddleston Jr.
An avid pilot, George’s passion for flying extended beyond the skies. He delighted in using his skills to serve others, volunteering for medical flights, and sharing his love for aviation with his community. His long-standing roles on the Murfreesboro Airport Commission and Tennessee Aeronautics Commission reflected his dedication to making aviation more accessible and impactful. George was deeply involved in his community, serving on Alive Hospice and The Webb School boards. He was also an officer of the Sportsman’s Club for many years, where he shared his enthusiasm for outdoor activities and fellowship. A proud Rotarian and Paul Harris Fellow, George embodied the spirit of “Service Above Self,” contributing to countless projects and mentoring future leaders.
