Andy Priester, the third generation in his family to run George J Priester Aviation and its family of companies, will be honoured with the National Air Transportation Association Distinguished Service Award for his lifelong commitment to the future of general aviation.

The award is given to an individual or organisation still active in general aviation on a regular, day-to-day basis and recognises outstanding service and ongoing contributions to the industry. It will be presented as part of the NATA Industry Excellence Awards Presentation and Luncheon, to be held in conjunction with the association's Aviation Business Conference in Nashville, Tennessee, on 13 November.

Joining the family business after a stint in education, Priester has led the company through a period of growth to become one of the most respected general aviation aircraft management and global charter businesses.

“I am thrilled for Andy as I consider him as much of a friend as a colleague,” says NATA president and CEO Curt Castagna. “He has been a mentor to many in the aviation business community while continuing to grow his company into a world-class operation. Andy has also provided NATA with strong leadership and insight through his board and committee leadership roles, helping the association navigate critical issues with his creative and strategic focus.”

In 2022, Priester led the strategic acquisition of Mayo Aviation, a customer-focused, family-led company with decades of history similar to that of Priester Aviation. He expanded the company the following year to include Hill Private Aviation, a historic aviation services company based in the US southeast.

Priester Aviation remains the company's Midwest base, while George J Priester Aviation serves as the parent organisation, focusing on future business and expansion initiatives. Under Priester's leadership, the company's fleet has expanded from seven aircraft to over 85 managed between all three brands, from 20 bases globally.

“As a company leader I heard for years, and appropriately so, that I had big shoes to fill,” Priester says. “Receiving this award means I am at least walking the right path, and that's pretty special. The fact that I am being recognised by my peers, people I honour and trust and respect, is unbelievably rewarding.”