Mather Airport

Mather Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a place with a rich history, transformed from a vital air force base into a modern center for logistics and business aviation. Located just a few minutes' drive from the bustling center of Sacramento, this airport serves as an excellent alternative for those who value the time and comfort of private flights, avoiding the hustle and bustle of large passenger terminals. Huge runways, capable of accepting the world's heaviest aircraft, and developed infrastructure make it a key point for cargo transportation and corporate flights in Northern California.

Features and Advantages of Mather Airport:

Although the airport does not serve regular commercial flights for mass tourism, it possesses a number of unique advantages for specialized travelers and business aviation:

• Impressive Infrastructure: The airport boasts one of the longest runways in California (over 3.4 km), allowing it to accept aircraft of absolutely any size, including heavy cargo planes and large private liners.
• Convenience for Private Aviation: Mather is the ideal choice for corporate flights and charters. The absence of queues typical of Sacramento International Airport (SMF) and the presence of specialized FBOs (terminals for business aviation) ensure maximum speed and confidentiality of service.
• Strategic Location: The airport is located in close proximity to Highway US-50, providing fast access to both the business center of Sacramento and the picturesque foothills of the Sierra Nevada.
• Historical Heritage: The airport territory was previously a US Air Force base, and the spirit of aviation history is still alive here. Air shows are frequently held near the airport, attracting aviation enthusiasts from across the region.

To contact the administration of Mather Airport, clarify information about private departures, or for questions regarding the operation of business aviation terminals, you may use the following contacts:

• Official Airport Website: sacramento.aero/mhr
• Administration and Help Desk Phone: +1 916-874-0359 (Administration questions and noise complaints).
• Airport Address: 10425 Norden Avenue, Mather, CA 95655, USA.
• Email: There is no direct public address; for written inquiries, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the Sacramento County Department of Airports website (sacramento.aero/scda/contact).
• Social Media: Current news and updates are posted on the official pages of the Sacramento County Department of Airports on Facebook and X (Twitter).
• Lost & Found Information: There is no centralized Lost & Found service at the airport, as regular commercial flights are not served here. If you left items on the plane or in the terminal, please contact your ground handling operator (FBO) directly.
• Terminal Contacts (FBO) for Pilots and Passengers:
  • Modern Aviation: +1 916-235-6297
  • Mather Jet Center: +1 916-538-5382

Since Mather Airport serves primarily general aviation and cargo transport, the mass transfer system typical for large hubs is absent here. Most passengers departing from here on private flights prefer private transport or taxis. Getting to the airport from downtown Sacramento is quite simple thanks to its proximity to expressways.

By Car and Taxi

The most convenient and common way to get to the airport is by car. Mather is located approximately 18–20 km east of Downtown Sacramento. The drive usually takes 15–25 minutes without traffic, however, during peak hours, the time may increase to 30–40 minutes.

• Route: The main road leads via highway US-50 East. You will need to take the Mather Field Road exit (Exit 17) and follow the signs south towards the airport.
• Taxi and Ridesharing: Popular services such as Uber and Lyft operate very actively in this area. This is the recommended option for those who do not have their own car.
• Cost: A taxi or Uber ride from downtown Sacramento will cost approximately $25–$45 depending on the time of day and vehicle class.

Public Transport

It is possible to get to Mather Airport by public transport, but it will require time and likely transfers. There is no direct bus to the business aviation terminals.

• Light Rail: The Gold Line of the SacRT system, running from the city center towards Folsom, will suit you. The nearest station is Mather Field/Mills Station.
• Bus: Local buses (for example, route 72) run from Mather Field/Mills station and serve the Mather area, but they may stop at a significant distance from the specific hangar or FBO (terminal) from where your flight departs.
• Recommendation: If you choose this option, be prepared to walk or call a taxi from the metro station to the airport gates. The fare for the metro/bus is about $2.50 for a single trip.

Car Rental

Since Mather is a center for business aviation, major rental companies (such as Enterprise, Hertz, Avis) often partner with local ground handling operators (FBOs). Although there may not be rental counters in the classic sense (as in passenger terminals), a car can often be ordered for delivery directly to the aircraft stairs through your operator (Modern Aviation or Mather Jet Center).

Parking

The parking situation here is much simpler than at international airports. Parking spaces for clients are usually provided near the FBO terminals.

• Cost: Often, parking for charter flight clients is provided free of charge or is included in the service cost.
• Security: Parking lots are under surveillance as they serve VIP clients. It is recommended to check the conditions with your hosting company in advance.

Transfer from Other Airports

If you are arriving in California on a scheduled flight to transfer to a private plane at Mather, it is important to consider the distances from neighboring aviation hubs. The closest is Sacramento International Airport (SMF), located approximately 30 km away (about 25–30 minutes drive). This is the region's main commercial airport, receiving the majority of domestic flights.

For those arriving from other parts of the San Francisco Bay Area, the journey will be significantly longer. For example, Oakland International Airport is more than 120 km from Mather, and the drive will take at least 1.5–2 hours. Even further away are San Francisco International Airport and San Jose Mineta International Airport — plan for a transfer from there to take at least 2–2.5 hours considering traffic. Travelers arriving via Sonoma County Airport also face a long trip (about 130 km).

Tip for Tourists: Always verify the exact address of your terminal (FBO) at Mather Airport before departing. This airport has several entrances, and a navigator might lead you to the administrative building instead of the correct hangar.

The structure of Mather Airport (MHR) differs radically from familiar passenger aviation hubs. Here you will not find a huge single building with hundreds of check-in counters, endless corridors, and boarding gates. Since the airport specializes in cargo transportation and business aviation (General Aviation), its "terminals" are separate, independent complexes called FBOs (Fixed Base Operators). They are scattered across the airfield territory and offer exclusive service for private clients and crews.

Terminals (FBOs) and Their Purpose

Instead of classic Terminals A, B, or C, specialized service centers function at Mather. Currently, two key operators conduct the main activities for receiving private flights:

• Modern Aviation (formerly SACjet): This is the main and largest "terminal" for business jets. It is a modern building with lounge areas, meeting rooms, and direct access to the apron. This is where the majority of VIP passengers arrive.
• Mather Jet Center: Another complex serving general aviation. It is oriented towards both corporate clients and private pilots, providing refueling and hangar storage services.

Separately, a cargo zone is designated on the airport territory (in the southern part), where logistics giants such as UPS are based. This zone is closed to ordinary visitors and tourists.

Departure and Arrival Zones and Service Features

In FBO terminals, the concepts of "departure zone" and "arrival zone" are combined into a single comfortable space. The features of these complexes create the atmosphere of a private club rather than a station:

• Interior and Amenities: Inside the terminals, there are cozy lobbies with soft furniture, free Wi-Fi, snacks, and beverages. Conference rooms are provided for business travelers.
• No Crowds: There are never queues here. Passenger flows are minimal as flights are performed individually.
• Direct Access: Often, a car can drive up practically to the aircraft stairs (with prior permission), or the transfer from the terminal building to the board takes less than a minute on a special golf cart or minivan.

Processing Time

One of the main advantages of Mather Airport's structure is the phenomenal speed of service. The rigid frameworks typical of commercial flights are absent here.

• Check-in and Screening: The procedure is simplified to the maximum. You do not need to remove shoes or take liquids out of your luggage. Document and security checks (if required for your flight type) are conducted quickly and discreetly.
• Recommended Arrival Time: Unlike standard airports where you need to be 2–3 hours early, at Mather it is sufficient to arrive 15–20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This is quite enough to have coffee, chat with the pilot, and proceed to boarding.

Navigation Scheme and Transfers

At Mather Airport, there is no need for transfers between terminals, as each flight is serviced at a specific FBO. If you have a transfer from one private plane to another, they will likely be parked nearby on the same apron.

Navigation Recommendations for Arrivals

The main feature of navigation here is decentralization. The airport does not have a "main entrance".

To avoid getting lost:

• Do not simply enter "Mather Airport" into your navigator. This may lead you to the administrative office or the closed gates of the cargo terminal.
• Always check with your charter broker or pilot for the exact name of the FBO (for example, "Modern Aviation Mather").
• Use the exact address of the specific terminal. Operator buildings are located on Norden Avenue and adjacent driveways, but at a significant distance from each other.

The history of Mather Airport is a fascinating chronicle of the transformation of a closed military facility into a key hub for civil aviation and logistics. Over its more than century-long history, this territory has seen the rise of aviation, large-scale training missions, and successful adaptation to civilian life.

Birth of a Legend: 1918

The airport's origins go back to the First World War. In 1918, the Department of Defense chose a site in the Sacramento Valley to create a flight school. The airfield was officially opened and named in honor of Second Lieutenant Carl Spencer Mather, a talented pilot who died in January of that year during a training flight in Texas. An interesting historical fact: Carl Mather himself learned to fly as a teenager, and his instructor was none other than one of the Wright brothers.

The Air Force Era and the "University of the Air"

For most of the 20th century, the airport functioned as Mather Air Force Base. It survived several stages of preservation and reopening, but its heyday came in the period after World War II and the Cold War years. The base became known as the "only navigation school" for the US Air Force, earning the unofficial title "University of the Air". Thousands of navigators were trained here who then flew on B-52 bombers.

A key stage of development was the inclusion of the base in the Strategic Air Command (SAC) in 1958. This required large-scale reconstruction: runways were lengthened and reinforced to accept heavy strategic bombers and tanker aircraft, which laid the foundation for the airport's current capabilities to accept super-heavy cargo.

Transformation into a Civilian Airport

The turning point in Mather's history was the end of the 20th century:

• 1988: A federal commission recommended closing the base as part of a program to reduce military spending.
• 1993: The Air Force Base was officially closed, ending a 75-year history of military service.
• 1995: The airport was transferred to Sacramento County and reopened its gates, but now as a civilian facility — Mather Airport. From this moment, its new life began as a center for cargo transport and business aviation.

Achievements and Interesting Facts

Over its long history, the airport has accumulated quite a few unique features and achievements:

• Giant Runways: The legacy of the military era gifted the airport with one of the longest runways in the region (over 3400 meters), allowing it to become one of the main hubs for the logistics company UPS on the West Coast.
• Space Connection: Due to its technical characteristics, Mather has repeatedly been used by NASA. For example, the unique SOFIA observatory aircraft (Boeing 747SP with a telescope on board) flew here to perform scientific missions.
• California Capital Airshow: Today, the historic sky over Mather is filled with the roar of engines once again thanks to the annual airshow. It is one of the largest aviation events in North America, attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators and paying tribute to the rich past of this place.

Since Mather Airport serves exclusively private, corporate aviation and cargo transport, the range of services here differs significantly from what passengers are accustomed to seeing in large international hubs. There are no noisy shopping galleries, duty-free zones, or food courts here. All service infrastructure is concentrated inside the FBO terminals (ground handling operators) and is aimed at maximum comfort, speed, and privacy for VIP clients and crews.

VIP Lounges and Waiting Areas

This is the heart of passenger service at Mather. Operator terminals, such as Modern Aviation and Mather Jet Center, essentially represent one large VIP lounge.

• Comfort: Passengers have access to spacious lobbies with designer soft furniture where they can relax before departure, although the wait rarely lasts long.
• Atmosphere: Interiors are designed in the style of premium hotels, ensuring silence and confidentiality.

Dining and Shops

There are no full-service restaurants or retail shops at the airport.

• Café and Snacks: In the FBO lounge zones, guests are offered complimentary hot beverages (coffee, tea), soft drinks, fresh pastries, and light snacks.
• Catering: For meals on board the aircraft, you can order exquisite dishes through your operator's concierge service. Orders must be placed in advance.
• Nearby Restaurants: If you have time before departure, it is recommended to visit establishments in the neighboring city of Rancho Cordova (5–10 minutes by taxi), where a wide selection of restaurants offering American and international cuisine is presented.

Business Services and Connectivity

The airport is perfectly adapted for business people who value every minute.

• Wi-Fi: High-speed secure Wi-Fi is available free of charge throughout all FBO terminals.
• Conference Rooms: Operators offer meeting rooms for rent, equipped with audio and video technology. This allows for meetings immediately after landing without leaving the airport territory.
• Charging Stations: Access to power outlets and USB ports is provided in every rest zone.

Financial and Medical Services

Due to the specific nature of the airport's operation, there is no public banking infrastructure or medical clinics here.

• Banks and Currency Exchange: ATMs and currency exchange points are absent on the premises. It is recommended to resolve financial matters in advance or in the city.
• Medical: There is no first aid post. In emergency cases, staff call city emergency services. First aid kits are available with terminal staff.

Services for Passengers with Reduced Mobility

An individual approach to service makes Mather Airport very convenient for passengers with limited mobility.

• Accessibility: Terminal buildings are single-story and fully comply with US ADA standards (Americans with Disabilities Act).
• Personal Assistance: FBO staff provide assistance with boarding and disembarking, often transporting the passenger by car or special vehicle directly to the aircraft stairs.

Passengers with Children

There are no specialized children's rooms or playgrounds at the airport, as the time spent in the terminal is kept to a minimum. However, lobbies usually have televisions and comfortable sofas where the whole family can settle comfortably.

Hotels Near the Airport

There are no hotels on the airport territory itself, but thanks to its location in a developed area of Sacramento County, the choice of accommodation within a 5–10 minute drive radius is very large. Most hotels are concentrated along Highway US-50 in the Rancho Cordova area.

• Sacramento Marriott Rancho Cordova: A high-class hotel with a restaurant and pool, popular among business travelers.
• Hyatt Place Sacramento/Rancho Cordova: A modern and comfortable hotel offering spacious rooms.
• Hampton Inn Sacramento/Rancho Cordova: An excellent option for those looking for quality service at a reasonable price.

It is important to note the main feature right away: since Mather Airport (MHR) does not serve regular passenger airlines, the familiar catering zone with food courts, fast food restaurants, or bars typical of large hubs is completely absent here. You will not find chain coffee shops or restaurants with a view of the runway inside the terminals here.

However, considering the status of VIP service, passengers will not remain hungry. The dining system here is built completely differently and is focused on individual service.

Dining Options Inside Terminals (FBOs)

In the private aviation service zones (Modern Aviation and Mather Jet Center), the dining concept resembles hotel business lounges. There are no menus with prices here, as basic refreshments are included in the service.

• Assortment: Freshly brewed coffee (often high quality), tea, soft drinks, juices, and water are always available in the lobby. Food offerings usually include fresh fruit, pastries (muffins, croissants), cookies, nuts, and light snacks.
• Location: FBO Waiting Zone (Lobby). This is a free access zone for clients before departure.
• Cost: Free for passengers and crews.
• Opening Hours: Around the clock or in accordance with the schedule of planned flights.

In-Flight Dining (Catering)

If you are planning a full meal, it must be ordered in advance for service directly on board the aircraft. This is the main way of dining for travelers at Mather.

• How it Works: You or your broker contact the FBO concierge service or local catering companies directly.
• Menu: There are practically no limitations. You can order dishes from the best restaurants in Sacramento, from Japanese sushi to Italian pasta and steaks.
• Dietary Options: Since the order is individual, any options are available: vegan, gluten-free, Halal, Kosher, or children's menus. Everything depends solely on your preferences.

Where to Eat Nearby (Landside)

If you have time before departure or have just arrived and want to eat "on the ground", the best solution would be to visit establishments in the immediate vicinity of the airport. The airport borders the city of Rancho Cordova, where the gastronomic scene is very developed.

1. Mather Golf Course Cafe (Nearest Option)

Literally across the road from the entrance to the airport territory is the Mather golf course. It features a grill cafe often visited by pilots and airport staff.

• Cuisine: Classic American (burgers, sandwiches, salads, breakfasts).
• Atmosphere: Relaxed, with a view of the green course. A great place for a quick bite in the spirit of "old America".
• Travel Time: 2–3 minutes by car from FBO terminals.
• Average Check: $15–$25.

2. Restaurants in Rancho Cordova (5–10 minutes drive)

A huge cluster of restaurants for every taste is located in the area of Zinfandel Drive and Highway US-50. This is the best option for a full lunch or dinner.

• Rudy's Hideaway Lobsterhouse: A local legend. A seafood restaurant with excellent lobsters and steaks. Suitable for a business lunch.
  Features: Gluten-free options available.
• Il Forno Classico: Exquisite Italian cuisine and an extensive beverage selection. A good choice for an evening meal.
• Oz Korean BBQ: For lovers of Asian cuisine and grilled meat.
• Quick Bite: Popular chains are represented in this same area: Chipotle, Starbucks, In-N-Out Burger (a California classic worth trying).

Summary: Recommendations for the Passenger

Traveling through Mather Airport differs radically from the experience of flying through large international hubs. Since general aviation (private jets and charters) is serviced here, many familiar rules do not apply here or work differently. To ensure your departure goes as smoothly as possible, we have prepared a list of useful tips taking into account the specifics of private terminals (FBOs).

Optimal Arrival Time

Forget the rule of "arriving 3 hours early". At Mather, time is your ally.

• Recommendation: Arrive at the terminal (FBO) 15–20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This is quite sufficient to meet the pilot, hand over luggage, and proceed to boarding.
• Do Not Be Late: Although a private plane often waits for its passenger, the departure slot (dispatcher permission) has time limits. Being very late can lead to losing your place in the takeoff queue.

Check-in and Security: Stress-Free

At Mather Airport, the screening process is simplified and humane to the maximum.

• Documents: You do not need to stand in lines at check-in counters. Usually, the passport or ID is checked by the aircraft captain or FBO staff immediately before boarding.
• Screening: There are no metal detector frames or body scanners here (except for large charter programs, for example, for sports teams). You will not have to remove shoes, belts, or take out electronics.
• Confidentiality: If anonymity is important to you, ask your broker to organize car delivery directly to the aircraft stairs (tarmac access) to bypass the terminal building.

Carry-on and Luggage: What You Need to Know

Rules for carrying items on private flights are much softer than on commercial ones, but there are technical limitations.

• Liquids: The "100 ml rule" does not apply here. You can calmly bring your favorite beverages, cosmetics, or perfume of any volume on board.
• Pets: Your pet can fly with you in the cabin, not in the luggage compartment. The main thing is to notify the operator in advance and have veterinary documents with you.
• Luggage Dimensions: This is a critically important point. Luggage compartments of Light Jets are often small and have a non-standard shape. Rigid large suitcases may simply not fit.
  Tip: Use soft bags or sports duffels which are easier to place in the compartment. Always coordinate the amount of luggage with the broker in advance.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane

There are no boarding passes with seat numbers on private flights.

• Open Seating: You can take any seat you like. Usually, the most honorary seat is on the right side facing forward, but the choice is always yours.
• Cockpit: In some cases (with the commander's consent and absence of strict company rules), passengers are allowed to look into the cockpit during the flight or even sit in the co-pilot's seat (if the flight is performed by one pilot, which happens on light aircraft).

Recommendations for Transfer Passengers

If Mather is a transfer point, consider the logistics.

• Jet to Jet: The transfer happens "tail-to-tail". You just need to walk a few meters across the apron.
• Private to Commercial Flight: If you are flying onwards by regular airlines, remember that the nearest large airport (SMF) is a 30-minute drive away. Allow at least 2.5–3 hours for the connection (time for the road + standard procedures at the big airport).

Customs Control (For International Flights)

If you are arriving at Mather from abroad (for example, from Mexico or Canada), the procedure will differ from the usual.

• On Board or at FBO: US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers usually approach the aircraft or meet you in a special zone of the terminal.
• Advance Notification: Ensure your pilot has submitted all data in advance. The procedure goes very quickly, without queues.

How to Save Time and Money

• Empty Legs: Ask brokers about the "empty leg" system. If a plane is returning to base in Sacramento empty, you can purchase this flight with a discount of up to 75%.
• Car Rental: Order a rental car through the FBO concierge service (Modern Aviation or Mather Jet Center). Often, corporate airport rates are more favorable than retail ones, and the car will be driven right up to the plane exit, which will save you time.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Delays in business aviation happen less frequently, but they are possible (weather or technical reasons).

• Do Not Panic: You do not need to look for a departure board. The pilot will personally inform you of the status.
• Comfortable Waiting: Use the time to work in an FBO meeting room or relax in the lounge with free coffee.
• Flexibility: Unlike scheduled flights, the route of a private plane can be adjusted. If the weather at Mather is unflyable, discuss with the pilot the possibility of landing at a neighboring airport where conditions are better.