Director to retire from Springfield airport

The Springfield-Branson National Airport's director is retiring after around 15 years in the leadership role.

Brian Weiler, 59, is scheduled to retire this summer, though an exact date has not yet been set, said Ren Luebbering, the airport's marketing and communications coordinator. Weiler does not intend to take another position when he retires, Luebbering said.

“It has been the honor and privilege of my professional career to lead the airport during this period of strong growth and change,” Weiler said in a news release. “We have a well-functioning board and great staff team here that will keep things moving forward, and I will do everything possible to help with a smooth transition."

The airport board plans to work with the city of Springfield on a selection process. Luebbering said the timeline of the search is still being determined.

Weiler started in August 2011, when he succeeded Gary Cyr, according to Springfield Business Journal archives. 

During Weiler's tenure, the airport has doubled airline passengers and direct routes and completed more than $100 million in improvement projects, according to the release. Projects include the American Airlines maintenance base completed in 2021 and the expanded general aviation terminal in 2024.

More than 1.5 million passengers used the airport in 2025, setting the third straight record year, according to past reporting. 

According to the release, Weiler is the third longest serving airport director in its history.

Weiler last year was one of three finalists for Springfield city manager. David Cameron ultimately was hired for the role. 

Cameron said in the release that Weiler “has been an exceptional leader for the Springfield-Branson National Airport.”

“His dedication to excellence and the community has strengthened not only the airport but also the broader economy of Springfield,” Cameron said in the release.