Priester Aviation, LLC, continues its history of family-led leadership by announcing the ascension of its next generation of ownership.
The Chicago-based private aviation company announces that Andy Priester, President and CEO, will become its Chairman, taking over from Charlie Priester, who remains as Chairman Emeritus.
In taking up the mantle of chairman, Andy Priester, will be third generation to lead the company founded by his grandfather, George in 1945. Charlie Priester had led the on-demand charter, management and aviation consulting company since the 1980s.
“For more than 75 years, the Priester name has meant so much to aviation and the people with whom we’ve built strong relationships and served,” says Andy Priester. “So much of that credit goes to Charlie, who took the company to new heights over the past 40 years. His vision and connections within the industry and to people have been invaluable to our success.”
The company plans to continue growing the company organically and via strategic acquisition, according to a press release.
The new leader became president and CEO in 2013. He is a graduate of the University of Dayton and Concordia University. Under his tenure at Priester Aviation, the company’s fleet has grown from seven aircraft to nearly 70 today. In 2018, it launched the Centerline Jet Card program.
The operator maintains an ARGUS Platinum rating, Wyvern, IS-BAO Stage III and Air Charter Safety Foundation certifications.
