Former Mayor Dave Bronson appointed to manage Anchorage international airport

Former Anchorage Mayor Dave Bronson was appointed Friday to manage the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, the Alaska transportation department announced.

The appointment came months after Bronson lost his bid to be reelected as mayor. Bronson had served a single term as mayor, during which he faced allegations of mismanagement and unethical behavior.

Before his time as mayor, Bronson worked as a commercial airline pilot, was an officer in the Alaska Air National Guard and served as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force.

Announcing the selection, state transportation Commissioner Ryan Anderson said Bronson’s “blend of hands-on aviation expertise and public sector experience is an asset to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.”

In a statement, Bronson said he understands “the vital role this airport plays for our state and beyond.”

The Anchorage airport is one of the busiest cargo air hubs in the country.

Bronson will answer to Angie Spear, who earlier this month was appointed to direct the Alaska International Airport System. Prior to that, Spear had served as interim manager of the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. She replaced Craig Campbell, Alaska’s former lieutenant governor, who retired earlier last year after two years managing the Anchorage airport.