Priester Aviation Targets Family-Owned Firms for Strategic Takeovers

Priester Aviation, headquartered at Chicago Executive Airport, is actively pursuing acquisitions of family-owned aircraft management and charter companies, chairman Andy Priester revealed during the NBAA-BACE conference in Las Vegas. The company prioritizes customer relationships and alignment with its personalized service approach as key factors in its expansion strategy.

Priester highlighted the company’s appeal to family-run businesses looking to exit without relying on private equity. “We offer a partnership that preserves what they value most—customer relationships. As an 80-year-old company with a reputation for high-quality operations, we’re seen as a trusted successor,” Priester explained.

Since 2022, Priester Aviation has acquired Mayo Aviation and Hill Private Aviation, retaining their regional branding while consolidating administrative functions to improve efficiency. Future acquisitions will focus on geographical and cultural alignment, with particular interest in expanding into the Dallas and Minneapolis markets while avoiding coastal regions.

Priester Aviation manages a fleet of 85 aircraft, including 19 Part 135 charter-certified jets and turboprops, and expects this number to grow to 120-150 aircraft. The company supports both private owners and “150/150” owners who split usage between personal travel and charters.

While Priester Aviation avoids heavy reliance on charter revenue, its acquisition strategy ensures flexibility to meet owner needs. By maintaining its personalized approach, the company aims to expand sustainably without compromising service quality, reinforcing its position as the largest family-owned aircraft management and charter company globally.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com