Phoenix Announces New Deer Valley Airport Manager

Kim Brown takes over leadership of one of the nation's busiest general aviation hubs

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:26am

Phoenix has named longtime aviation leader Kim Brown as the new manager of Phoenix Deer Valley Airport, one of the nation's busiest general aviation hubs. Brown returns to Deer Valley with deep ties to the airport community and extensive experience from Phoenix Sky Harbor, overseeing key operations that affect local pilots, tenants, and aviation businesses.

Why it matters

The Deer Valley Airport is a critical transportation hub for the Phoenix metropolitan area, serving private and corporate aircraft as well as flight schools. Brown's leadership will shape the airport's future operations, infrastructure investments, and relationships with the surrounding community.

The details

Following the retirement of Ed Faron after nearly 24 years, Brown brings a wealth of experience to the Deer Valley Airport manager role. She previously worked at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, overseeing key functions like airfield operations, facility maintenance, and tenant relations. In her new position, Brown will be responsible for managing the airport's day-to-day activities, implementing strategic initiatives, and collaborating with local stakeholders to ensure the facility meets the evolving needs of general aviation in the region.

  • Ed Faron retired as Deer Valley Airport manager after nearly 24 years of service.
  • Kim Brown was named the new Deer Valley Airport manager in April 2026.

The players

Kim Brown

The new manager of Phoenix Deer Valley Airport, bringing extensive experience from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Ed Faron

The previous Deer Valley Airport manager who retired after nearly 24 years of service.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to welcome Kim Brown to the Deer Valley Airport team. Her deep aviation expertise and strong community ties will be invaluable as we work to enhance the airport's operations and infrastructure to meet the growing needs of general aviation in the Phoenix area.”

— Mayor Kate Gallego, City of Phoenix

What’s next

Brown will begin her new role as Deer Valley Airport manager on May 1, 2026, overseeing the facility's day-to-day operations and long-term strategic planning.

The takeaway

The appointment of Kim Brown as the new Deer Valley Airport manager signals Phoenix's commitment to maintaining the facility as a premier general aviation hub, leveraging her extensive experience and community connections to drive continued improvements and growth.