MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Changes, upgrades, and future projects are underway at the Murfreesboro Municipal Airport as Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) begins the process of relocating its flight training fleet to nearby Shelbyville... That was Murfreesboro Airport Manager Chad Gehrke, who told WGNS that as MTSU flight operations have decreased locally, so have the number of complaints... The university manages 47 aircraft that are used for flight instruction and aviation education. Of the nearly 50-planes, 12 are at the Shelbyville Airport, which is the future home of the flight training program under the Aerospace Department.

MTSU previously reported that its footprint at the Murfreesboro Airport makes the university the facility’s largest tenant—one that needed even more space. However, the airport, which continues to serve other clients, customers, and visitors, had limited capacity to accommodate the growing aerospace program...

A surge in overall air traffic at the city-operated airport prompted MTSU to explore expansion opportunities in Bedford County. There, Governor Bill Lee approved nearly $58 million in state funds to support the university’s $62.2 million aerospace expansion. Construction began at the Shelbyville Municipal Airport last year on a 50,000-square-foot academic building and a 28,000-square-foot hangar, with completion expected in late 2027, according to the university.

Shortly after MTSU announced plans to relocate, Murfreesboro airport officials began planning for the next generation of airport growth and revenue opportunities...

One major project currently underway includes the construction of a new hangar designed to meet the needs of expanding business and general aviation services...

In addition, an air traffic control tower was recently approved under a federal funding program... While the tower will be maintained by the City of Murfreesboro, the air traffic controllers will not be city employees...

At least 30 acres have also been added to the airport property through strategic land swaps made by the city in previous years...

In closing, Gehrke highlighted the airport’s growing role as a valuable community and economic asset... The Murfreesboro Municipal Airport opened more than 70 years ago at its current location at 1930 Memorial Boulevard. In 2019, the original terminal, built in 1952, was demolished to make way for the modern facility that now welcomes visitors, clients, and guests.