Silver Diner BWI Airport Asks Gov. Moore to Help It Stay

Silver Diner BWI Airport is at the center of a lease dispute that has now reached the governor's desk. The restaurant is asking Gov. Wes Moore to step in as it fights to stay at its longtime location. Silver Diner has operated at BWI since 2007. It employs about 120 people at the airport site.

Silver Diner BWI Airport Asks the Governor to Step In

In a letter sent Wednesday, Silver Diner Chairman Bob Giaimo asked Moore to help secure a new lease. The space sits on the Southwest concourse. The restaurant argues that the state has authority under its agreement with Fraport. That authority, it says, would let the state require a locally owned and operated restaurant in the space.

Fraport is the concessions developer and management company overseeing retail and dining at BWI. Giaimo argued that the Maryland Aviation Administration's agreement with Fraport gives the state this power. Silver Diner wants Moore to use it to keep the restaurant in place.

How the Silver Diner Lease Dispute Began

The Silver Diner lease dispute was first reported in September. At that time, the restaurant filed a lawsuit against Fraport. Silver Diner said it reached an agreement with Fraport in 2022. That deal would let it stay in the same location while renovating the space.

The restaurant alleges that Fraport later added new requirements. Those requirements would involve demolishing and rebuilding the restaurant. Silver Diner estimated that the work would cost between $8 million and $10 million.

Silver Diner Renovation Costs

Silver Diner said it was willing to invest up to $4 million in renovations. That amount is far below the estimated cost of a full rebuild. The gap between the two figures sits at the heart of the disagreement.

Fraport Denies the Claims

Fraport denied the allegations in September. The company called the claims unfounded. It said it had complied with its contractual obligations and acted in good faith. Fraport and the governor's office were both contacted for comment on the latest request.

What Is at Stake at BWI

About 120 jobs depend on the airport restaurant. A local business that has served travelers for nearly two decades could lose its home. The outcome may also shape how airport concession agreements treat local operators in the future.

What Happens Next

The story is still developing. Neither the governor's office nor Fraport has responded to the latest request in the original report. Readers should watch for updates as the dispute moves forward. Any decision could affect travelers, staff and the wider BWI dining scene.

Readers can find more restaurant news on our site. To learn more about the restaurant, visit the official Silver Diner website.