The Pierre City Commission has chosen a new manager for the city’s airport.

Brian Cowles takes over the job on March 20.

He replaces Cameron Howard, who has served as Pierre’s airport manager since April of 2020.

Cowles has experience at several other small and midsize airports. He previously worked as operations manager at the Branson Airport in Missouri.

“Brian really impressed us in the interview process,” said City Engineer John Childs in a press release. “He’s incredibly well-rounded; his operational and policy experience are a boon for our airport.”

Cowles will oversee a variety of operations at the airport, including facilities management, licensing and regulations and federal reporting.

According to the city, the Pierre Regional Airport had more than 16,000 commercial enplanements last year.