(RALEIGH) -- John Brantley is retiring as director of the Raleigh-Durham International Airport after 34 years of service.

Brantley worked for the Federal Aviation Administration and as an engineering consultant before coming to work at RDU. His first position at the airport was as an engineering assistant in 1977. He was appointed director in 1982.

Airport Authority Chairman Rob Teer says a search for Brantley's replacement will begin immediately. He predicts a strong crop of candidates for the job.