Ryan Aviation Corporation began in 1976 in Wichita, Kansas, as a fixed base operator (FBO) providing fueling and maintenance services at Mid-Continent Airport. In 1981 the company began operating cargo aircraft under the name Ryan International Airlines, upgrading its Part 135 certificate to a Part 121 air carrier certificate.  In 1994 the assets of the FBO were sold and transport operations became the sole focus of Ryan International Airlines.

From 1981 to 2002, Ryan International Airlines was engaged in the transportation of mail and overnight air freight. In 1984 Ryan commenced passenger operations utilizing two (2) B727-100 aircraft. These aircraft served the charter industry and primarily transported vacation travelers.

In 2006, Ryan relocated its corporate headquarters from Wichita, Kansas to a brand new state of the art facility in Rockford, Illinois. 

Over the past year, Ryan has operated over thirty (30) aircraft of various types on its Operating Certificate.  Ryan has emerged as the industry leader for safety, service and quality in the charter airline market.