George J. Priester Aviation Adds Maxair and Elite Jets to Fleet

This article is based on an official press release from George J. Priester Aviation.

Maxair and Elite Jets Join George J. Priester Aviation

George J. Priester Aviation has announced the addition of two regional charter operators, Maxair and Elite Jets, to its growing family of private aviation companies. The strategic move, facilitated in partnership with Invision Capital, further consolidates the private jets market under one of the industry’s largest family-led networks.

According to the official press release, Maxair and Elite Jets will operate alongside existing legacy brands Priester Aviation, Mayo Aviation, Hill Private Aviation, and Omni Private Aviation. The integration aims to combine the specialized owned-aircraft charter expertise of the new additions with the broader aircraft management and ad-hoc charter capabilities of the George J. Priester Aviation group.

The collaboration builds on the collective group’s 80-year history of aviation services, aiming to provide enhanced charter opportunities and expanded access to experienced flight crews in markets across the United States.

Expanding the Fleet and Regional Reach

Strategic Geographic Additions

The inclusion of Maxair, based in Appleton, Wisconsin, and Elite Jets, located in Naples, Florida, strategically enhances the network’s geographic footprint. These additions complement the group’s established bases across the Midwest, Rocky Mountain West, Southeast, and South Central regions of the United States.

Despite the change in corporate structure, both Maxair and Elite Jets will maintain their regional focus. The company stated that both operators will continue operating under their historic brand names, preserving the local relationships and trust they have cultivated over the years.

Aircraft and Operational Synergies

The press release notes that the two companies will contribute 17 aircraft to the broader fleet, with nearly all of them available for charter services. The newly integrated fleet features a variety of premium business jets, including Embraer Phenom 300s, a Legacy 500, Gulfstream G200s, and a Gulfstream GV.

Company leadership emphasized the shared values and operational synergies driving the expansion. By sharing operational expertise and regional relationships, the group intends to strengthen service capabilities for both aircraft owners and charter customers.

“This partnership brings together organizations that share a passion in delivering high-touch ownerships and charter experience built on safety, service and long-term relationships,” said Chairman Andy Priester in the company’s press release.

“We’re honored to bring all of these incredible people and rich histories together. The strengths of the six companies make us all better, while retaining the unique qualities and connections that have served our regions so well,” Priester added.

AirPro News analysis

The acquisition of Maxair and Elite Jets by George J. Priester Aviation highlights a continuing trend of consolidation within the private aviation sector. By partnering with private equity firm Invision Capital to facilitate these agreements, George J. Priester Aviation is positioning itself to scale operations rapidly while mitigating the risks associated with losing regional brand loyalty. Maintaining the legacy names of acquired operators allows the parent company to absorb valuable assets, such as the 17 newly added aircraft, and experienced flight crews without disrupting the established client base in key markets like Wisconsin and Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions

What companies are joining George J. Priester Aviation?

Maxair (based in Appleton, Wisconsin) and Elite Jets (based in Naples, Florida) are the latest operators to join the network.

Will Maxair and Elite Jets change their names?

No. According to the company’s announcement, both operators will retain their historic brand names and continue their regional focus.

How many aircraft are being added to the fleet?

The two companies bring a combined total of 17 aircraft to the broader fleet, including Embraer Phenom 300s, a Legacy 500, Gulfstream G200s, and a Gulfstream GV.

Sources

• George J. Priester Aviation