Rider Jet Center | Top FBO Service-2025

Aerospace & Defense Review - www.aerospacedefensereview.com

When longtime private pilot David Rider opened his full-service, fixed-base operator (FBO) service at Hagerstown Regional Airport (KHGR) in 2003, he had more than 35 years of flying experience. The motto for his company was distilled from the values of exceptional customer service he had come to appreciate during David’s long years in the cockpit; “We treat pilots and their passengers how we would want to be treated."

For the past two decades, the service he built—Rider Jet Center (RJC)—has upheld that philosophy. David’s son, Ben Rider, now leads the company, determined to continue his vision of elevating the standards of FBO services with hospitality, trust and unmatched customer care. It provides aviation fuel, ramp services, rental car arrangements and hotel reservations, all supported by more than 180,000 square feet of hangar space for various customers and tenants.

“From the beginning, my father and I have viewed this as a hospitality business,” says Ben. “Fuel, hangar space and ground services are a given everywhere. What sets us apart is how we treat our customers.”

The company offers dedicated ‘follow-me’ carts, which escort pilots safely as aircraft approach the ramp. Every plane is given the red-carpet treatment (including actual red-carpet mats), with a lineman dedicated to assisting with immediate service requests. Rental cars are parked ramp side in advance, hotel reservations are confirmed and handed over upon arrival, and customer service representatives offer local guidance with the same care one would expect from a luxury concierge. Rider Jet Center is a proud Avfuel FBO.

The facility features high-end amenities like free Wi-Fi, satellite TVs, comfortable lounges and a full-service restaurant called “The Grille at Runways.” The restaurant opened in 2014, and is a favorite for transient pilots, local patrons and military crews, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner six days a week with sweeping airfield views.

According to Tom Brice, the President of Sky Bryce Aviation, “Rider Jet Center is absolutely terrific. I love this FBO. Great hangar space, and top-notch customer service! When my pilot friends come to visit, they tell me they love the staff, The Grille at Runways Restaurant, and the great line service.”

Service at RJC extends beyond comfort. It recently added an on-site jet maintenance service facility under the trade name South Mountain Aviation, enabling the facility to promptly address any mechanical issues, inspections, or needed service.

RJC proved its worth recently when an aircraft blew a tire upon landing. The team had the jet towed off the runway, the tire replaced, and the flight back in the air in under two hours. Its responsiveness and seamless integration between ramp service and technical support help keep aircraft moving and clients happy.

The facility’s tenants attest to the quality of these services. Sierra Nevada Corporation, a major DOD contractor based at the facility, credits the RJC with helping overcome a critical flight delay by providing a much-needed part on short notice. Other tenants include LifeNet 8-1 (Air Methods), and several other defense-focused organizations.

Ron Brown is an RN and a former flight paramedic and serves as the Regional Account Executive for Air Methods. “Air Methods’ LifeNet 8-1 air ambulance program has proudly operated out of Rider Jet Center for over 15 years. Thanks to a strong and supportive partnership, we’re able to maintain 24/7 operations with efficiency and reliability. LifeNet 8-1 has transported more than 7,500 patients since opening, and this vital mission would not be possible without the collaboration and support of the Rider Jet Center team.”

RJC’s role in the defense ecosystem extends further due to its location as the closest airport to Camp David. The company holds a DESC government contract for refueling military aircraft and frequently supports helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft from all military branches. The team goes above and beyond for DOD personnel, greeting them respectfully, sharing meals and offering a place of rest between missions.

Just recently, it received a certificate of appreciation from the 10th Combat Aviation Brigade that perfectly sums up the success of RJC’s ethos, first established by David Rider and now lives on through Ben,

“Your generosity and flexibility directly contributed to the successful return of the Brigaded helicopters to Fort Drum, New York. Your team’s efforts were truly appreciated by the 10th Combat Aviation Brigade of the 10th Mountain Division, Light Infantry and the United States Army.”