Chattanooga Airport chief to take controls at RDU

Brantley, who has overseen operations at Raleigh-Durham International Airport for 29 years, announced in March that he planned to retire.

Michael Landguth has worked at the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport since 1999 and has led it for seven years. He is expected to take the controls at RDU by Dec. 1.

"We were looking for someone who can drive an organization and can strategically turn challenges into opportunities," RDU board Chairman Terry Yeargin said in a statement. "The board unanimously agreed that Michael is the person to lead RDU into the future."

During his time with the Chattanooga Airport Authority, Landguth secured more than $70 million in grant funding for infrastructure development, brought in three new airlines, added eight nonstop destinations and launched a solar farm project that helped reduce the airport’s energy consumption, officials said.

"RDU has a stellar reputation, so I am honored to have an opportunity to work with this experienced team and be a part of RDU’s future,” he said in a statement.

Brantley began his career in aviation 45 years ago with the Federal Aviation Administration. He started at RDU in 1977 as an engineering assistant and become airport director five years later.

During his tenure, RDU evolved from a mid-sized regional airport to an American Airlines hub to a thriving airport with flights that stretch coast to coast and include several international destinations.