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A newly released economic impact study highlights the growing contributions of the Tennessee Association of Air Carrier Airports (TAACA), reinforcing the critical role Tennessee’s commercial airports play in supporting jobs, tourism, and federal, state, and local tax revenues statewide.

NASHVILLE, TENN. (Feb. 20, 2026) — The Tennessee Association of Air Carrier Airports (TAACA), representing the state’s five primary commercial service airports in Chattanooga, Knoxville, Memphis, Nashville, and the Tri-Cities, today released the findings of its 2025 Economic Impact Study – based on calendar 2024. The study affirms the aviation industry’s significant and expanding role as a driver of economic growth across Tennessee.

The 2025 Economic Impact Study was conducted by InterVISTAS Consulting, an internationally recognized aviation and transportation consulting firm with a proven record of delivering comprehensive economic impact analyses, air service development initiatives, strategic and business plans, market assessments, and economic recovery strategies for airports, transportation systems, tourism organizations, business associations, and government clients.

The study evaluated the economic contributions generated by aviation activity at Tennessee’s commercial airports, including job creation, personal income, business revenue, and tax generation. The findings demonstrate the far-reaching economic value of commercial aviation to communities across the state, supporting thousands of jobs, enabling tourism and commerce, and generating substantial federal, state, and local tax revenues.

Tennessee’s Five Primary Commercial Service Airports impact is as follows:

• $28.3 billion in total economic impact for Tennessee.
• Over 171,000 Tennessee jobs are facilitated by airport activity.
• Contributes to $4.1 billion in total taxes which includes $2.5 billion in federal, $1.08 billion in state and $548 million in local taxes.
• This represents an $8.8 billion, 45%, increase in economic impact since the State of Tennessee sponsored CY19 study.

Key findings from Nashville International Airport®, also known as BNA®, include:

Nashville International Airport® (BNA®)

• $13.8 billion in total economic impact for Tennessee.
• 80,000 Tennessee jobs are facilitated by airport activity.
• Contributes to $2.1 billion in total taxes which includes $1.13 billion in federal, $631 million in state and $339 million in local taxes.

“The 2025 Economic Impact Study underscores the importance of long-term planning and investment. The data reflects what Middle Tennessee sees every day, BNA is far more than a gateway; it is a powerful economic engine for our community,” said Doug Kreulen, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, which owns and manages BNA. “As the region continues to grow, we remain committed to providing world-class facilities, expanding capacity and ensuring BNA is prepared to meet rising demand and support Middle Tennessee’s future.”

About Nashville International Airport® (BNA®)
Nashville International Airport®, also known as BNA®, is one of the fastest-growing airports in the nation and a vital infrastructure asset for Middle Tennessee. As the gateway to Music City and beyond, BNA plays a pivotal role in supporting economic growth and community prosperity. The InterVISTAS 2025 Economic Impact Study reports that in 2024 alone, BNA generated $13.8 billion in total economic impact, supported 80,000 jobs and contributed to $2.1 billion in federal, state and local taxes. The airport receives no local tax dollars. To keep pace with Nashville’s rapid expansion and evolving passenger needs, BNA is undergoing a major transformation through its New Horizon expansion program. Learn more at BNANewHorizon.com and flynashville.com, and stay connected by following BNA on social media: Facebook (@NashvilleInternationalAirport), X (@Fly_Nashville), Instagram (@FlyNashville), YouTube (@NashvilleInternationalAirport) and LinkedIn (in/MNAA).

The Boring Company’s innovative, all-electric transit “Music City Loop” to connect BNA® to key points, support continued passenger growth; No cost to Authority or taxpayers

Nashville, Tenn. (Feb. 18, 2026) – The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) has signed a letter of intent with The Boring Company (TBC) to facilitate development of  “The Music City Loop”—a zero-emission, high-speed underground transit system that will make travel to and from Nashville International Airport®, also known as BNA®, fast and efficient for passengers and help accommodate the airport’s record growth.

The innovative all-electric transit system will feature a fleet of TBC owned and operated vehicles that connect BNA passengers to key transit points while alleviating surface-level roadway congestion and providing a comfortable and simple option for travelers to and from the airport. The system will meet or exceed the stringent National Fire Protection Association fire and life safety standards.

“Our growth at BNA continues to outpace all projections, and ease of access to the airport is crucial for every passenger we serve,” said Doug Kreulen, President and CEO of MNAA. “The Airport Authority’s focus is on bringing innovation, technology and enhanced service to ensure we stay ahead of regional growth. This new service gives our passengers another excellent option for reaching BNA in a timely manner. We are delighted to make way for the Music City Loop with The Boring Company.”

Low-Risk, High-Yield Infrastructure Strategy

Under the terms of the recommended agreement, MNAA secures a long-term financial benefit without the capital risk typically associated with major infrastructure expansions. Key fiscal highlights include:

• Zero Capital Investment: All costs related to design, construction, operations and maintenance are fully funded by The Boring Company.

• Significant Revenue Generation: The 50-year agreement is projected to generate approximately $34 million in license fee revenue and a conservatively estimated $309 million in pick-up and drop-off fees.

• Expense Reimbursement: TBC will reimburse the Authority for incurred legal, engineering and administrative costs related to the project.

• Furthers MNAA’s Sustainability Commitment: The ‘Music City Loop’ is an all-electric, zero-emissions, high-speed underground transit system.

Innovating, Scaling for the Future

As BNA prepares for a projected increase to 40 million annual passengers at Terminal I—and looks toward a future Terminal II supporting 70 million passengers—the subsurface system serves as a relief valve for airport roadways, providing efficient transit options between Downtown Nashville and the airport while removing millions of vehicles per year from roadways. The project integrates into BNA’s long-term master plan without adding operational expenses.

"At BNA, we were the first airport to embrace ride-share, and we see this tunnel system as a further step in transit innovation for our passengers and the broader Middle Tennessee community,” continued Kreulen. “This partnership reflects thoughtful planning, collaboration and our commitment to fiscal responsibility. By diversifying our transportation options to and from the airport and securing new revenue streams needed to fund future MNAA debt without burdening taxpayers, our goal is to ensure BNA remains competitive, accessible and financially strong for decades to come.”

BNA Reaches New Heights with Historic Expansion in Nonstop Markets and International Reach under New Horizon Program

Nashville, Tenn. (August 18, 2025) – Nashville International Airport® (BNA®) today announced a landmark fiscal year marked by remarkable growth, groundbreaking partnerships, and national recognition. The airport welcomed a record 24.7 million passengers, setting a new benchmark in BNA’s history.

Key highlights from BNA’s banner year include:

• In June 2025, BNA welcomed 2,426,794 departing travelers—the highest number of screened passengers ever recorded in a single month at the airport.
• June 22, 2025, became the busiest day in BNA’s history, with a staggering 110,000 passengers flowing through the terminal. Of those, 48,039 were screened at security checkpoints—an all-time high for a single day.
• Unveiled two new international airline partnerships just a week apart—on September 27 and October 4, 2024—and followed through with the transoceanic flight launches only two days apart: Icelandair on April 10 and Aer Lingus on April 12, 2025.
• As of July 2025, BNA offers service to 113 nonstop destinations—the most in its history.
  • The number of nonstop destinations is set to increase to 114 in on August 5, 2025, kicking off Fiscal Year 2026 with another historic benchmark.
• Proudly hosted of the 39th Annual AMAC Airport Diversity Conference, reinforcing its commitment to inclusion and industry leadership

“These achievements represent far more than impressive numbers—they’re the result of bold vision, unwavering dedication, and a team committed to delivering excellence every single day,” said Doug Kreulen, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA). “Behind every milestone is our commitment to growth, innovation, and service. As the front door to Music City, we take pride in offering travelers a first impression of Nashville. And with continued growth on the horizon, we’re building more than an airport; we’re strengthening global connections, elevating journeys, and growing with the dynamic region we serve.”

This year, BNA marked a number of celebrations, launches, and community initiatives, including:

• Launch of the Sunflower Program
• Rolled out the BNA® PASSport Program
• Welcomed the appointment of new Board Commissioner Glenn Farner
• Held a check presentation ceremony for the beneficiaries of our 27th Annual BNA® Aviation Golf Classic:
  • Tennessee State University
  • Operation Stand Down Tennessee
  • Nashville Mental Health Cooperative
• Hosted our 28th Annual BNA® Aviation Golf Classic benefiting:
  • Japan America Society of Tennessee - Cherry Blossom Festival
  • Martha O’Bryan Center
  • Alzheimer’s Association
  • Nashville Therapy Pets
• BNA’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) recognized by the Department of Justice (DOJ) for their work with the DEA to apprehend a suspect who landed at BNA with possession of over 50 pounds of fentanyl-laced pills! This arrest saved countless lives, and we’re incredibly proud of our DPS team
• Launched new terminal Wi-Fi with no ads, delivering speeds up to 20x faster TSA successfully introduced REAL ID requirements with little impact to travelers, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition
• Joined forces with Tennessee Businesses Against Trafficking, a campaign led by the Office of Secretary of State Tre Hargett
• Presented with the following awards:
  • AirHelp Score Report — BNA ranked 6th best airport in the U.S. and 18th globally, reflecting excellence in passenger experience and airport operations.
  • Chairman’s Award: Doug Kreulen received this prestigious accolade at the 39th Annual AMAC Airport Diversity Conference, recognizing leadership and commitment to diversity in aviation.
  • PRSA Nashville Parthenon Awards: The Corporate Communications Team at BNA was recognized for outstanding public relations campaigns that elevated the airport’s brand and community engagement.
  • 2024 IDEAS² Awards: BNA earned distinction from the American Institute of Steel Construction for the innovative design and structural excellence of its Grand Lobby and International Arrivals Facility.
  • First Responder of the Year: Officer Michelle Gregory from BNA’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) was named First Responder of the Year by the Donelson Hermitage Chamber, honoring her bravery and service.
  • J.D. Power Airport Satisfaction Ranking: BNA was ranked #5 among large airports in North America in the 2024 J.D. Power rankings for overall customer satisfaction—an incredible milestone that reflects our dedication to providing a world-class experience for every traveler.
  • Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) — BNA received two prestigious honors for the Grand Lobby and International Arrivals Facility (IAF).
    • Award of Excellence in Aviation Projects
    • Best in Virtual Design and Construction
  • AXN Director of the Year: Doug Kreulen honored as AXN Director of the Year in the Large Airports Division at the prestigious Airport Concession Awards
  • Stevie Awards®: MNAA earned Bronze in the Government P.R. category at the 23rd Annual American Business Awards® for the FY 2024 Annual Report Video
  • Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting: MNAA earned its 24th consecutive year of recognition for excellence in financial reporting for the FY 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
  • Richard A. Griesbach Award for Excellence: BNA wins highest honor at 2025 ACI-NA Excellence in Airport Concessions Awards for most outstanding and innovative airport concessions program in the nation

Amongst the accolades received and milestones accomplished in Fiscal Year 2025, progress continued on New Horizon, the transformative $3 billion growth and expansion program at BNA. New Horizon builds on the success of BNA® Vision_,_ which wrapped up in February 2024, and marks the next chapter in BNA’s ongoing transformation to meet the unprecedented growth of Nashville and travel needs of passengers. Scheduled for completion in 2029, New Horizon is essential to enabling BNA’s ability to support 40 million annual passengers in the future.

For the latest updates and news about New Horizon, and to view BNA®: Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow, a visual storytelling of BNA’s past, present and future featuring Multi-Platinum Recording Artist and Actor Trace Adkins, visit BNANewHorizon.com.

To view the commemorative video celebrating BNA’s record-breaking year, CLICK HERE.