John Brantley, the previous long-serving director of Raleigh-Durham International Airport who played a key role in transforming the facility into a contemporary hub, has passed away.
Brantley, who was 82 years old, passed away suddenly on Friday at the Wake Medical Center in Raleigh.
according to his obituary
Brantley served as the director of RDU Airport from 1982 to 2011, overseeing a time marked by significant expansion.
“John’s legacy is deeply embedded within the essence of RDU,” the airport
posted Sunday on its website
He played a key role in transforming it from a small airport with origins dating back to World War II into the contemporary, premier entry point for the Research Triangle area that it is nowadays.
Directed significant growth at RDU
Brantley remained a lifetime inhabitant of Raleigh. He completed his education at Broughton High School in 1960 and then went on to graduate from North Carolina State University in 1964.
As stated in his obituary, Brantley started his professional journey with the Federal Aviation Administration back in 1966. In 1977, he was brought aboard specifically to oversee the creation of a comprehensive long-term strategy for RDU.
In October 1982, Brantley took over as the airport director. Over his 29 years in this role, he spearheaded the development of a 10,000-foot runway and new facilities for American Airlines’ hub. His leadership also encompassed enhancements such as modernized air cargo areas, improvements for general aviation, upgraded roads and parking structures, the creation of Terminal 2, and a revamp of Terminal 1.
After retiring from RDU, Brantley took up roles as a trustee at Barton College and joined the board of directors for the Research Triangle Foundation.
Instead of sending flowers, Brantley’s family requests that contributions be directed to the Raleigh Rescue Mission or the American Heart Association in his memory.
There are currently no announcements regarding plans for his memorial service.
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