Mr Sowry joined Queenstown Airport in September 2021 at the height of the Covid pandemic and has overseen a significant period of recovery for the airport, the development of a 10-year strategic plan and related master plan that will shape the future direction of the airport for many years into the future.
Mr Sowry said it had been a challenging and exciting time to have been leading Queenstown Airport.
"From no flights in my first week in the role, to a full recovery to pre-Covid levels, and a clearly defined strategy and master plan now approved and in delivery, it has been an exhilarating journey.
"I am, however, most proud of the way Queenstown Airport has recalibrated its approach to respond to the expectations and needs of the community it serves and its wide customer base through genuine and extensive engagement and consultation."
"I remain fully committed to leading Queenstown Airport to the best of my abilities for the next nine months," Mr Sowry said.
Incoming QAC board chairman Simon Flood also acknowledged Mr Sowry’s contribution.
"Glen has made a huge contribution to the business during his tenure, which extends far beyond the airfield boundaries. He has firmly established Queenstown Airport’s reputation as a listening and transparent organisation that is committed to serving its communities’ best interests.
"When he leaves it will be with our thanks for a job done well, but until then, we have much to do, and I am looking forward to working with Glen and his very able team to ensure that Queenstown Airport remains a place that people love to travel through and that we can all take pride in."
QAC chairwoman Adrienne Young-Cooper said the board had commenced the recruitment process for a new chief executive and expected a smooth transition to a new leadership in mid-2025.
