The Airport Authority Meeting held on March 30, 2025, in Shelbyville, Tennessee, focused on the development of a new AeroFlight Educates Center at the local airport. The meeting began with discussions about the center's design and purpose, emphasizing its role as a collaborative space for aviation education and training. The center aims to serve various aviation groups, including Tennessee flight training and MTSU, providing much-needed classroom space for after-hours and weekend classes.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was parking and traffic management, particularly during events. In response, plans were modified to include a gravel parking lot that would be discreetly located between the new building and the existing EAA facilities. This adjustment aims to accommodate increased visitor traffic while minimizing disruption during peak airport usage.

The board discussed the urgency of securing a building for the center, with a proposal for a ground lease of up to 5,500 square feet. The request included a verbal approval to proceed with purchasing a building, which would allow for a more specific lease agreement to be drafted before the next board meeting. The urgency stems from the fast-moving nature of available buildings, with the goal of finalizing a purchase quickly to ensure the project remains on track.

Concerns about aesthetics and the visual impact of the new building were also addressed. Board members expressed the importance of ensuring that the new structure complements the airport's overall appearance, especially given recent investments in airport infrastructure. The discussion included potential landscaping and design elements to enhance the building's visual appeal.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for further collaboration and communication between the airport authority and the involved parties to ensure that the project aligns with the airport's long-term goals and community standards. The next steps include presenting the finalized plans to the city council for approval, with a focus on maintaining the airport's aesthetic integrity while fostering aviation education and training in the region.