Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport Authority’s John Black has announced that he will retire from his position as executive director at the end of 2024. Black, who began his career with the airport authority in 1991, was praised for fostering Smyrna Airport (MQY)’s campus growth, managing the establishment of the facility’s Airport Westside Development as well as shepherding the developer relationship needed to build the 2 million-square-foot Airport Industrial Park warehouse space. While under Black’s leadership, MQY received -FAA 139 Certification and won two Airport of the Year awards from the Tennessee Aeronautics Division. Black was also recognized by the FAA as Southern Region General Aviation Airport Manager of the Year, Aeronautics Division Airport Manager of the Year and the recipient of a Career Contribution Award. Outside of his work with the airport authority, Black serves as president of the Tennessee Aviation Association, as an adjunct faculty member at Middle Tennessee State University’s Aerospace Department and as director of the Great Tennessee Airshow.
“I am truly grateful to have had the incredible opportunity to be part of the growth and development of one of Rutherford County’s greatest assets,” said Black of his three decade tenure at MQY. “We have accomplished so much with an amazing team, and the airport is set for a bright future ahead.”
“The Smyrna Airport is an incredible resource for our community. It’s the third-largest airport in the state and the busiest general aviation airport in Tennessee. Its evolution over the last 30 years has been nothing short of remarkable. A primary reason for this growth and success is the leadership of John Black…plain and simple,” said Airport Authority chair Mike Woods, who noted that the airport authority will begin a formal search for Black’s replacement. “We are forever indebted to John’s more than three decades of service and leadership. We wish him the best of luck in all future endeavors.”
