Premier Private Jets’ ASI Acquisition Transforms Dayton Aviation Hub

Why the Aviation Sales Inc. Acquisition Matters

When Premier Private Jets acquired Aviation Sales Inc. (ASI) in January 2025, it signaled a strategic shift in business aviation’s competitive landscape. This merger combines ASI’s 67-year legacy as Dayton International Airport’s trusted fixed-base operator with Premier’s aggressive national expansion strategy. For regional aviation hubs like Dayton, such consolidations increasingly determine which airports remain relevant in an era of evolving aircraft technology and traveler expectations.

The deal follows Premier’s late 2023 rescue of a nearby maintenance repair station, demonstrating calculated growth through strategic acquisitions. With this move, Premier gains control of 20,000 sq ft of hangar space and 195,000 sq ft of ramp area – critical infrastructure as business jet traffic rebounds post-pandemic. For ASI’s loyal clientele, the transition promises upgraded facilities while preserving institutional knowledge from veteran staff.

Strategic Expansion Through Acquisition

The Dayton Footprint

Premier’s dual acquisitions position Dayton International Airport as a Midwestern business aviation nexus. By integrating ASI’s existing FBO with the salvaged MRO facility, the company creates a full-service hub offering everything from de-icing to interior refurbishments. New belt loaders and expanded ground power units specifically target operators of large-cabin jets like Gulfstream G650s – aircraft increasingly favored by Fortune 500 flight departments.

The timing aligns with regional demand spikes. “When the NCAA First Four tournament hits Dayton in March, we’ll be handling team charters that previously bypassed us,” explains incoming GM Matthew Spaugy. Enhanced de-icing capabilities address a critical Midwest operational gap, reducing winter weather diversions.

“An FBO isn’t just fuel trucks and lounges – it’s the people ensuring safe handling and repeat business. That’s why we’re keeping ASI’s team intact.” – Josh Birmingham, Premier CEO

Operational Synergies

Merging ASI’s flight training operations with Premier’s charter network creates novel revenue streams. A Cirrus SR22 pilot trained at ASI could seamlessly transition to chartering Premier’s Phenom 300 fleet. Maintenance crews from the acquired MRO now support both legacy ASI customers and Premier’s growing fleet.

The financial structure reveals strategic foresight. While acquisition costs remain undisclosed, industry analysts estimate the combined facilities could generate $15-20M annually. By retaining ASI’s 40+ employees, Premier avoids the $500k+ recruitment/training costs typical of new FBO launches.

Regional Impact and Industry Implications

Dayton’s Aviation Renaissance

Once threatened by Stevens Aerospace’s planned closure, Dayton’s aviation sector now thrives through Premier’s investments. The dual acquisitions preserved 85+ local jobs while attracting transient aircraft spending. Airport authorities report a 17% YoY increase in business jet movements since the deals were announced.

Local businesses benefit too. A new contract with Dayton-based BelTech Avionics supplies glass cockpit upgrades across Premier’s fleet. The FBO’s expanded lounge sources provisions from nearby suppliers, injecting an estimated $2.8M annually into regional businesses.

Consolidation Trends

Premier’s moves mirror industry-wide shifts. NBAA data shows 58% of FBOs are now part of national chains, up from 42% in 2020. For independents like ASI, joining networks provides purchasing power – jet fuel costs drop 12-15% through Premier’s bulk contracts.

However, some pilots express concerns. “Corporate FBOs prioritize fleet customers over weekend flyers,” notes Cirrus owner Mark Treadwell. Premier counters by maintaining ASI’s popular $99 overnight parking rate for light aircraft – a rate 23% below chain averages.

Conclusion

The ASI acquisition demonstrates how strategic consolidation can revitalize regional airports while preserving local character. By blending ASI’s community roots with Premier’s resources, Dayton gains a business aviation complex rivaling larger hubs.

Looking ahead, expect more mid-sized airports to become battlegrounds for hybrid FBO models. As Birmingham notes, “The future belongs to operators who can deliver national-scale efficiencies without losing that hometown touch.” For aviation professionals, these mergers create new career paths bridging traditional line service and high-tech fleet operations.

FAQ

Question: Will ASI’s flight school remain open?
Answer: Yes – Premier has committed to expanding ASI’s Part 141 training programs with new simulator investments.

Question: How does this affect fuel prices?
Answer: Jet-A rates dropped 8% post-acquisition due to Premier’s bulk purchasing. 100LL remains price-stable.

Question: Are there plans for more acquisitions?
Answer: Premier’s CEO confirms targeting 2-3 Midwestern FBOs through 2026 to build network density.

Sources:
BizJournals,
DC Newsroom