Arab American Heritage Month honors the arts, culture, traditions, history, and contributions of Arab American people in the United States. In recognition, we are highlighting our team members of Arab heritage who embody The PSA Way.     

Today, we introduce Captain John George, who shared his journey to aviation and the cultural traditions he cherishes the most.     

What is your heritage and ethnicity and your journey to aviation and PSA? 

I’m Egyptian American, and I’m proud of my roots in Egypt and the rich culture that shapes who I am. My love for travel led me to aviation, and PSA felt like the right place to grow and connect with others. 

As an Arab American, how do you feel you positively impact PSA’s culture of diversity and inclusion?  

I bring a unique perspective from my Egyptian background, helping to foster understanding and inclusivity at PSA.  

What are some Egyptian cultural traditions or customs you hold dear?  

Family and hospitality are key values in Egyptian culture, and I carry those with me in all my interactions. I cherish the sense of community, resilience, and deep pride in our history.  

PSA Airlines, McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) announce new maintenance base, nearly 100 Knoxville-area jobs

Career fair April 15 – 16 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET at Hilton TYS Airport

 

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., APRIL 11, 2025 – PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group and leading regional airline, and McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) have agreed to terms for PSA to open and operate a maintenance base at the airport. As part of the deal, PSA will use the hangar previously occupied by a maintenance provider.

 

The TYS maintenance base will be PSA’s 10th maintenance base. It will be fully operational by this summer and is a strategic addition that supports PSA’s growing fleet and will serve as a “B check” facility. “B checks” occur two to three times each year and are more in-depth than routine checks that are performed frequently.

“As we continue to grow our fleet and further strengthen our reliability, the addition of our new maintenance base at McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville is an important step forward,” said Dion Flannery, PSA President and Chief Executive Officer. “Knoxville has aviation-rich talent, and we’re excited about the opportunity to add local aviation maintenance expertise to the PSA team, further enabling PSA to deliver satisfied customers to their destination safely and on time.”

TYS Airport, City of Knoxville, and Blount County leaders echoed excitement about this new relationship and what it means for the area and its people.

“The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority is excited to welcome PSA Airlines’ maintenance base to McGhee Tyson Airport and thanks them for investing in our community,” said Patrick Wilson, President of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority. “This partnership reflects our strategic goal of promoting the continued growth of aerospace industry jobs and investments in our region. PSA’s announcement adds to an impressive list of aerospace companies and training opportunities already available in East Tennessee including the new aviation maintenance technician training school at Pellissippi State Community College in Blount County.”

 

“I want to welcome PSA Airlines Maintenance Base to East Tennessee and extend my gratitude for their commitment to open this new facility at McGhee Tyson,” said Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell. “This is a wonderful opportunity for our Airport and our entire region. One of our major priorities is giving our young people the chance to succeed. This maintenance base is a tremendous opportunity for them and another reason our Aviation Academy at Pellissippi State in Blount County is so very important. The PSA maintenance facility is a great addition to the diverse aerospace employment and education opportunities already in our area.”

 

“I am excited to see more growth and expansion at McGhee Tyson Airport,” said Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon. “Adding nearly 100 new jobs and more investment in our region is a big win for us all.”

Great job opportunities for local aviation maintenance talent

PSA’s TYS maintenance base will employ nearly 100 team members, including aircraft maintenance technicians, leads, supply chain professionals for its Stores facility, and operations-focused Management and Support Staff.

 

Those interested in being considering for open roles in PSA’s new maintenance base, including aircraft maintenance technicians, aviation parts specialists and more should stop by PSA’s TYS Maintenance Base Career Fair, which is April 15 and 16 at the Hilton TYS Airport from 9 – 5 p.m. ET both days. Additionally, people can visit www.psaairlines.com to search and apply for career opportunities at the company’s TYS maintenance base and throughout its network.

 

PSA’s other maintenance bases are at Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT), Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Dayton International Airport (DAY), Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), Norfolk International Airport (ORF), Pensacola International Airport (PNS) and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV).

 

About PSA Airlines

PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group, operates an all-jet fleet of dual-class MHI regional jet aircraft. The company’s over 5,000 team members operate an average of over 750 daily flights to over 100 destinations. PSA has flight crew bases in Charlotte, N.C.; Dallas-Fort Worth; Dayton, Ohio; Philadelphia; and Washington, D.C. PSA has maintenance facilities in Dayton; Canton/Akron, Ohio; Cincinnati; Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth; Greenville, S.C.; Norfolk, Va.; Pensacola, Fla.; and Savannah, Ga. PSA has 60 MHI CRJ700 aircraft and 80 MHI CRJ900 aircraft, and recently announced the acquisition of 14 additional CRJ900 aircraft (which will bring its fleet count to 154 once all aircraft have been inducted). For more, visit www.psaairlines.com.

 

DAYTON, Ohio – PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group and leading regional airline, today announced it is opening a new maintenance base in Knoxville (TYS), Tenn. this summer. The TYS maintenance base will be PSA’s 10th maintenance base and is a strategic addition that will support PSA’s growing fleet and serve as a “B check” facility. “B checks” occur two to three times each year and are more in-depth than routine checks that are performed frequently. 

“The Knoxville maintenance base will play a pivotal role in our network at PSA Airlines, increasing our operational reliability, supporting our growth and addressing maintenance needs,” said Richard Ugarte, Vice President of Technical Operations at PSA.    

TYS will employ nearly 100 team members including aircraft maintenance technicians, leads, supply chain professionals for its Stores facility, and operations-focused Management and Support Staff. 

PSA’s other maintenance bases are at Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT), Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Dayton International Airport (DAY), Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), Norfolk International Airport (ORF), Pensacola International Airport (PNS) and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV). 

Summary

At PSA Airlines, our Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) play a critical role in ensuring the safety and reliability of our fleet. As an AMT, you’ll be at the heart of aviation maintenance, performing essential repairs and services that keep our operations running smoothly and on time.

Understand the Role of an Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) at PSA

As an AMT at PSA, you’ll be responsible for performing aircraft maintenance and repairs in compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations and company standards. Your role includes conducting inspections, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and ensuring all work is properly documented. You’ll handle various repair tasks, from routine maintenance to complex diagnostics. Additionally, AMTs may assist in training programs, conduct required inspections when authorized, and uphold PSA’s commitment to safety and compliance through the Safety Management System (SMS). Every day presents new challenges and learning opportunities, making this a rewarding career for those who thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.

Resume Tips: Stand Out from the Crowd

A strong resume can set you apart from other candidates when applying for an AMT position at PSA. Here are some key tips:

  • Organize your job history in chronological order for clarity and easy readability.
  • Highlight mechanical experience, even if it’s outside of aviation. Auto, motorcycle, and machine maintenance all demonstrate valuable hands-on skills.
  • Showcase leadership and teamwork experience. Whether through previous jobs, volunteer work, or projects, these skills make a difference.
  • Proofread your resume. Spelling and grammar mistakes can create a negative impression, so double-check everything before submitting.

Interview Tips: Make a Great First Impression

Once your resume lands you an interview, it’s time to prepare. Here’s how to make a great impression:

  • Dress professionally. Even though this is a hands-on job, opt for smart casual attire like polo shirts, button downs, blouses, pants or skirt and dresses.
  • Bring a copy of your resume. This demonstrates preparedness and professionalism.
  • Research the company. Having a basic understanding of PSA Airlines shows initiative and genuine interest.
  • Prepare questions in advance. Always have 1-2 questions to ask your recruiter and the hiring manager. Writing down a few key talking points can help.

Join Our Team Today!

If you’re ready to take your mechanical skills to new heights, PSA Airlines is hiring dedicated AMTs to join our team. Apply today.

In the days since the tragic accident of Flight 5342 and the passing of four colleagues – Captain Jonathan Campos, First Officer Samuel Lilley, Flight Attendant Danasia Elder, and Flight Attendant Ian Epstein – we have been focused on caring for the families and loved ones of all lost on that flight.  

Flight 5342 Crew Given PSA Honorary President’s Award

In speaking with our fallen crew members’ loved ones about ways PSA can pay tribute to and honor them, PSA is awarding all four crew members the PSA Honorary President’s Award. 

The President’s Award is the highest honor a PSA team member can receive, and it represents the very best of our airline. It is a peer-nominated honor and based on the company-wide outpouring of support for our lost colleagues, we cannot think of a more moving or sincere tribute than having all 5,000 PSA team members nominate our fallen colleagues.  

Family members of each crew member operating Flight 5342 will receive PSA Honorary President’s Award commemorative certificates.  

Samuel Lilley Receives Honorary Captain Upgrade 

It is with profound respect and deep appreciation that PSA Airlines posthumously bestows the status of Honorary Captain upon First Officer Samuel Lilley. Throughout his tenure at PSA Airlines, Samuel Lilley exemplified the highest standards of aviation excellence, demonstrating exceptional airmanship, unwavering dedication to safety, and extraordinary professionalism that inspired all who had the privilege of flying alongside him. 

The title of Honorary Captain reflects not only his technical expertise but also the profound impact he had on our airline family. His legacy will forever serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the dedication, skill, and integrity that define the very best in our profession. 

 

Charlotte, N.C., Jan. 29, 2025 – PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group and leading regional airline, today announced it is relocating its corporate headquarters from Dayton, Ohio to Charlotte. The new headquarters will be located at 2709 Water Ridge Parkway (28217), which is in the Water Ridge Office Park about two miles from American’s Charlotte Flight Training Center and five miles from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), where many PSA team members are currently based. PSA’s Charlotte headquarters is expected to open in January 2026 and will house about 400 PSA team members.   

With over 750 daily departures, including over 180 out of CLT (serving about 21,000 customers per day into and out of CLT), PSA serves American’s American Eagle regional network, directly supporting four American hubs – CLT, Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Philadelphia (PHL), and Washington, D.C. (DCA) – with routes to over 100 markets spanning parts of Canada and the Caribbean, going as far west as Texas, and flying throughout the Midwest and Eastern United States. 

PSA’s headquarters relocation to Charlotte – which involves moving many Dayton-based team members, as well as the future hiring of Charlotte-area residents – is a testament to the importance of CLT to PSA’s operation and American’s network. There are no state or local incentives being provided to PSA for this move.  

“We chose to relocate PSA’s headquarters to Charlotte for several important reasons, including that Charlotte is where most of our daily departures occur and almost all our training is based,” said Dion Flannery, President and CEO of PSA. “Charlotte is a vibrant community and home to the world’s seventh-busiest airport. While we’re looking forward to getting integrated into the Charlotte community, I want to sincerely thank the City of Dayton, its leaders and the entire Dayton community for embracing and supporting PSA for so many years. We will continue to have a presence in Dayton with a maintenance hangar and crew base – including more than 550 Dayton-based team members.” 

All 350 Dayton-based team members are being invited to continue their careers with PSA and relocate to Charlotte. They have until the end of April to decide. 

PSA has already begun posting some Charlotte-based roles, and its local hiring needs will depend on how many team members opt to relocate to Charlotte. Those interested in joining PSA should visit www.psaairlines.com often to see and apply for open roles.  

“At PSA, we pride ourselves on our culture, where The PSA Way – being driven, reliable and caring in all that we do – is always on full display,” added Flannery. “Those interested in joining a successful and growing company that operates independently, while also providing the stability and security that comes with being the second-largest wholly owned regional at American Airlines, are encouraged to reach out and apply to join the PSA team. I truly believe we provide a ‘best of both worlds’ opportunity at our airline.”   

Annually, PSA hires nearly 1,200 team members, including crew members based throughout its footprint. PSA expects to increase its hiring in 2025 and 2026 based on anticipated needs in Charlotte. PSA will provide a firmer update on the total number of local hires needed once the relocation decision period closes this spring.  

Movement of PSA team members from Dayton to Charlotte will be gradual, with select moves occurring as early as the second half of 2025 and concluding in 2026.  

About PSA Airlines 

PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines, operates an all-jet fleet consisting exclusively of dual-class MHI regional jet aircraft. The company’s 5,000 team members operate an average of over 750 daily flights to over 100 destinations. PSA has flight crew bases in Charlotte, N.C.; Dallas-Fort Worth; Dayton, Ohio; Philadelphia; and Washington, D.C. PSA has maintenance facilities in Dayton; Canton/Akron, Ohio; Cincinnati; Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth; Greenville, S.C.; Norfolk, Va.; Pensacola, Fla.; and Savannah, Ga. PSA has 61 MHI CRJ700 aircraft and 80 MHI CRJ900 aircraft, and recently announced the acquisition of 14 additional CRJ900 aircraft (which will bring its fleet count to 155 once all aircraft have been inducted). For more, visit www.psaairlines.com 

For media inquiries reach out to Director of Communications & Marketing Joe Horvath at Joe.Horvath@psaairlines.com.

Your pilot logbook is one of the most critical documents when applying for a position at PSA Airlines. A well-organized, accurate logbook not only showcases your attention to detail but also ensures a smooth review process. To help you stand out during the application process, here are six essential tips from our recruiters:

  1. Log Flight Times Accurately
    All flight times must be recorded in compliance with FAA regulations. Avoid any “pencil whipping” or exaggerating flight times, as accuracy is non-negotiable.
  2. Total Every Column
    Ensure every column of every page is totaled, even if you didn’t log new hours. Use a ‘0’ for columns without new entries and carry over the most recent totals to the new page. This consistency keeps your logbook clear and easy to review.
  3. Use Black or Blue Ink
    All entries should be made in black or blue pen, and each page must be signed. This simple step ensures professionalism and compliance.
  4. Keep It Legible
    Your logbook must be easy to read. If it’s illegible, recruiters may not be able to complete the review, which could delay your application.
  5. Meet Minimum Hour Requirements
    Before applying, double-check that you meet FAA and PSA’s minimum hour requirements for the position. Staying within the allowed timeframe ensures you’re eligible.
  6. Tab Out Check Ride Failures
    Clearly mark any check ride failures in your logbook. Transparency is key, and recruiters will appreciate your honesty.

By following these tips, you’ll not only present a professional logbook but also set yourself up for success in the recruitment process. To learn more about a career as a Pilot at PSA, visit our website.

Chris Sailer’s career at PSA Airlines exemplifies the remarkable career advancement opportunities within the company and the aviation industry. Starting as an intern over a decade ago, Chris’ journey highlights dedication, versatility, and a lifelong passion for aviation. 

The Path to Aviation 

Chris’ fascination with flying began early in life. His parents fueled his interest by taking him to airshows, sparking a dream that would shape his future. At nine years old, a family friend took Chris and his dad on a flight, offering Chris a chance to sit up front and even take the controls. This pivotal moment solidified his ambition to become a pilot. Later, a family trip to Disney World and his first flight on a commercial jet further deepened his love for aviation. By the time he was 16, Chris was already taking flying lessons which led him to flying an airplane solo before even getting a drivers license. 

Building the Foundation 

Like many aspiring pilots, Chris faced the challenge of the FAA’s 1,500-hour rule for earning an Airline Transport Pilot certificate. Determined to build the required experience, Chris pursued an Aviation Management degree, followed by a master’s in Aviation Safety. This academic foundation not only prepared him for a career in aviation but also introduced him to the critical field of safety—an area he would come to love. To build his final few hundred flight hours, Chris took to the skies in his Cherokee 180 single-engine aircraft, flying it all over the country and further deepening his passion for aviation.  

 A Career in Safety 

Chris joined PSA Airlines 11 years ago as an intern, quickly finding his passion in the safety department. Over the years, Chris’ role expanded to encompass various facets of aviation safety, including flight safety, investigations, data monitoring, trend analysis, maintenance safety, regulatory compliance, quality assurance and collaboration with training departments to address safety trends. These experiences solidified Chris’ belief in the critical importance of safety and prepared him for leadership roles within the airline. 

 Balancing Piloting and Safety 

While Chris always aspired to be a pilot, his growing commitment to safety posed a dilemma: should he focus solely on becoming a pilot or continue his work in safety? PSA Airlines offered him the rare opportunity to do both. Today, Chris serves as a First Officer while maintaining his position as Director of Safety, a balance that keeps him connected to the operational realities of flying. He undergoes the same rigorous training and recurrent checks as all pilots, ensuring he remains sharp and current. 

Chris’ experience as a pilot enhances his safety work, allowing him to bridge the gap between safety protocols and real-world operations.  

 A Model for Career Advancement 

Chris Sailer’s journey at PSA Airlines illustrates the opportunities for growth and advancement within the company. His story demonstrates that with passion, hard work, and a willingness to embrace diverse roles, it’s possible to achieve great heights. From his first solo flight to his dual roles as a pilot and Director of Safety, Chris embodies the values of PSA Airlines and serves as an inspiration to those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling aviation career.  

 At PSA Airlines, career advancement isn’t just a possibility—it’s a reality for those who are ready to seize the opportunities and grow with the organization. Ready for your next opportunity? Check out our open roles at psaairlines.com

Using situational awareness, showing compassion, and taking action are cornerstones to running a safe operation and those were crucial during a medical emergency at the Integrated Operations Center earlier this year. 

A Maintenance Control team member experienced a cardiac event while sitting at his desk and went unconscious for a short period. 

Austin Mcintosh, Tracei Castorena and Justin Townsley all played a part in ensuring the team member received medical attention as quickly as possible. Their response during the event earned them the Real American Hero Award which is given to those who “perform a lifesaving action by utilizing CPR, AED or otherwise going beyond the call of duty in a life-threatening situation.”  

According to the award nominations, Austin was the first to notice the team member was having a medical event, rushed over to him and immediately alerted others, including Tracei and Justin.  

Tracei, who was in the middle section of the IOC called “the bridge” ran to the MOC area to assist Austin while Justin called 911, ensured a path was cleared for the emergency personnel and equipment and provided them access to the secured building. 

Recalling the event, Tracei said she took the team members’ pulse which was weak and when they regained consciousness, she gathered important information to relay to the medical professionals she knew they would need. She has experience in other medical emergencies and training from when she worked in a pharmacy in a major medical facility. She is also CPR and First Aid trained. 

The three were honored at a ceremony where they received Real American Hero capes and recognition from leaders.  

About the honor, Tracei said she is touched by the appreciation shown, but “not helping would never be a consideration. It’s what teammates do for each other.” 

We applaud the actions taken by the individuals directly involved. The three exemplify The PSA Way through their drive to help, their show of care for a fellow team member and being reliable during a time of need.

If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling the world, working in the airline industry could make it a reality. Flight benefits are one of our team members’ favorite perks, offering them and their loved ones the chance to explore the globe.

What are flight benefits?
Flight benefits are exclusively for airline team members, eligible retirees, their families, and, in some cases, close friends. It allows them to fly on standby when seats are available.

Who Can Use Flight Benefits?

  • Team Members: Current and eligible retired airline staff.
  • Family Members: Spouses, children, and dependents.
  • Close Friends: Those lucky enough to score a buddy pass!

Where Can You Travel?

At PSA Airlines, we are part of the American Airlines network, so these benefits extend to an incredible list of domestic and international destinations. From iconic U.S. cities to exotic international destinations within the OneWorld alliance, team members can explore the world.

Non-Rev Travel Glossary

  • Standby: Waiting for an open seat on a flight.
  • Buddy Pass: A travel pass for friends.
  • Dependents: Immediate family members eligible for benefits.
  • Registered Companion: A non-family member eligible for travel.
  • OneWorld Alliance: A global network of airlines that collaborate to provide seamless travel options, shared benefits, and extensive destination coverage for passengers, including those traveling on team member flight benefits.

Additional Benefits

At PSA, we are committed to providing support for our team members both on and off the job. Additional benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, flexible spending accounts, disability insurance, and life insurance options. Team members also enjoy perks, paid time off, holidays, a 401(k) savings plan, profit-sharing, and exclusive American Airlines deals and discounts.

Ready to pack your bags? Check out our open opportunities and apply today.

Check out photos of our team members using their flight benefits!