Snyder Brothers Serve Four Decades on American Airlines Ramp

Bobby and Lance Snyder have worked for American Airlines at Charlotte Douglas International Airport for a combined eight decades.

The brothers serve as crew chiefs at the airline's second-largest hub, coordinating the ground operations that keep flights running on schedule.

The Snyder brothers grew up in the Johnson City, Tennessee, area near the Tri-Cities Airport. Bobby Snyder recalled visiting the tarmac as a child with a neighbor, an experience that planted the seed for his career in aviation. Lance Snyder remembered cleaning overnight flights and collecting loose coins and peanuts from the aircraft cabins. Those early memories drew both men to the industry. Bobby Snyder moved to Charlotte in 1986 and submitted his resume to Piedmont Airlines. He received a job offer the following week. Lance Snyder followed his brother to North Carolina nine months later, applying to the same carrier. Bobby Snyder began in the air freight department, delivering cargo to gates. He transferred to the ramp in 1987 and has worked there ever since. Lance Snyder started with duties that included loading and unloading planes, parking aircraft, and pushing them into position. He noted that these tasks remain largely the same today.

Both men now lead teams of three workers. Their crew prepares for arrivals and departures by assessing cargo needs and positioning staff. Bobby Snyder explained that three to four runners typically assist with each flight. The team must connect water, air, and power services quickly, often within a couple of minutes. Doors must close four to five minutes before departure to ensure the plane leaves on time. Bobby Snyder said the goal is to keep passengers happy by ensuring their bags are loaded correctly and in a timely manner.

The workforce at the airport has shifted toward younger employees in recent years. Lance Snyder said he enjoys working with people from various backgrounds and cultures. He aims to serve as a mentor and a positive presence for his co-workers, occasionally acting as a father figure. He hopes to be a bright light for the team.

In February 2026, the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority presented the brothers with the Unsung Heroes Award. The award recognized their long tenure and dedication to the job. Cesar Marchese, the customer operations managing director for American Airlines at Charlotte, noted that the brothers show passion for their work and help mentor many current team members.

Airport officials have shared tips for travelers to assist baggage handlers. Passengers should remove loose straps from their luggage. They should also avoid placing the airline bag tag on the same handle as the personal luggage tag. This separation allows the scanning system to read barcodes more clearly.

The brothers continue their daily routines on the ramp, managing the flow of aircraft and cargo at the busy hub.