South Mountain Aviation Achieves FAA Part 145 Certification
South Mountain Aviation, a rising star in the aircraft maintenance and avionics sector, proudly announces that it has received FAA Part 145 certification. This important milestone officially qualifies the company as an approved Repair Station, empowering it to provide regulated maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for aircraft and components.
The journey towards this certification was no small feat. It took several months of rigorous processes and careful planning to meet the stringent requirements set forth by the FAA. According to Greg Travis, the Manager of the Baltimore Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), South Mountain Aviation displayed commendable diligence during the 18 months of dedicated effort required to reach these standards.
Founded just two and a half years ago, South Mountain Aviation has carved a niche in the Mid-Atlantic region, offering unique services tailored for a variety of small jets. This certification allows them to affirm their commitment to quality and safety in aircraft maintenance—an essential element for maintaining airworthiness.
The company is known for providing reliable maintenance solutions, focusing primarily on small jets, which have limited service options in the Mid-Atlantic area. With many corporate flight departments and small jet owners previously having to travel further away for satisfactory services, South Mountain Aviation's FAA certification positions it as a much-needed local provider. They cater to clients from Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and beyond, swiftly addressing small jet maintenance needs.
Since its inception, South Mountain Aviation has built a reputation for excellence and reliability, which has allowed them to attract a loyal customer base, including several regional and national industry leaders. Their focus on personal service and their flexibility in meeting customer needs have significantly contributed to their success.
Notably, the workforce at South Mountain has grown from two employees to six, with plans to double that number by the end of 2027. This expansion will not only enhance their service capacity but also maintain their high standards of quality and efficiency. Each team member boasts rich industry experience and specialized training from prestigious institutions like Textron Aviation and Cirrus Aircraft.
In addition to maintenance services for various jet models, South Mountain Aviation's new FAA authorization opens doors for enhanced avionics offerings. The services they provide now include:
- - Aircraft Phase Document Inspections
- - Avionics Sales & Service
- - AOG Mobile Service
- - Aircraft Management & Tracking Services
- - Heavy Check Inspections
- - Heavy Maintenance on Citation Line
- - Non-Disruptive Testing
- - Jet X-Rays
- - Airplane Fabric and Interior Repairs
Co-founded by licensed airframe professionals Ian Terry and Jayce Keefer, South Mountain Aviation reflects a strong commitment to excellence in the aviation industry. With support from industry connections and established relationships—such as with Textron Aviation—the founders were able to equip their team with the tools and resources necessary for specialized aviation maintenance.
“We worked hard to earn the Part 145 Certification,” Terry emphasized. “We understand that pilots prefer to know their aircraft is in safe hands, and we aim to become the go-to choice for business and private jet owners.”
Keefer added, “Rider Jet Center is dedicated to serving all levels of pilots and aircraft, and with South Mountain Aviation focusing on small jet maintenance, we’re creating a one-stop destination for comprehensive aviation care. We actively pursue business opportunities, bringing our expertise directly to the customer.”
About South Mountain Aviation
Founded in 2024, South Mountain Aviation stands out as a trusted provider of aircraft maintenance and avionics services in the Mid-Atlantic region. Specializing in servicing Gulfstreams, Globals, Hawkers, and Citation Jets, the company also offers avionics solutions for general aviation aircraft, ensuring that their clients receive top-notch service all from their location in the Rider Jet Center in Hagerstown, Maryland. For more information on their services or potential employment opportunities, visit their website at southmountainaviation.com.