Ridgely Airpark

Ridgely Airpark (KRJD), also known as Gooden Airpark, primarily serves general aviation pilots. Overall sentiment appears to be functional for its purpose, with appreciation for essential services like self-serve fuel and maintenance. However, there are noted concerns regarding pavement conditions and wildlife.

What Travelers Love (Pilots):

• Self-serve 100LL fuel: Available 24/7 with a credit card for convenience.
• No landing fees: Pilots appreciate the absence of landing charges.
• Major airframe and powerplant repair: Services are available on-site for aircraft maintenance needs.
• Asphalt runway in good condition: Runway 12/30 is noted to be in good condition.
• Pilot-activated lighting: Runway lights (LIRL) and Runway End Identifier Lights (REIL) can be activated by pilots via CTAF.
• Unlimited vehicle access to aircraft movement areas: This provides flexibility for ground access.

Common Complaints (Pilots):

• Pavement deterioration: Taxiway and apron pavements are reported to be failing with loose aggregate and alligator cracking.
• Faded runway markings: Runway edge markings are faded, with crack seal through them, and threshold bars/numbers are half size.
• Soft turf areas: Adjacent turf areas can be soft when wet, potentially affecting ground operations.
• Wildlife presence: Birds, deer, and other wildlife are frequently found on and near the airport, posing a potential hazard.
• Unmonitored UNICOM: The UNICOM frequency is unmonitored, requiring pilots to be vigilant for traffic advisories.
• Limited ground transportation: The FBO (Threeway Aviation) does not offer crew cars or rental cars.

Ridgely Airpark serves as a practical, no-frills general aviation facility, particularly valued by pilots for its fuel availability and maintenance services. While operational for VFR flights, users should be aware of unmonitored communications, potential pavement issues, and local wildlife.