George J. Priester Aviation is celebrating 80 years in operation. Founded by George Priester in 1945, the company began as a flight training school for military veterans at Palwaukee Airport in Illinois, which was attended by more than 5,000 pilots. Priester had solo piloted in 1928 and became an instructor pilot by 1938, using his early experience to shape the business.

“My grandfather George was an aviation pioneer,” says Andy Priester, chairman of George J. Priester Aviation and its affiliated brands, Priester Aviation, Mayo Aviation and Hill Private Aviation. “He saw the immense value that air travel would have for businesses, communities and individuals. His vision still drives us 80 years later, and each of our clients feel his impact when they entrust us to provide our aviation solutions. We continue to prioritise fostering customer-focused local relationships that enhance our global operations.”

In 1953, Priester purchased the airport and opened a fixed-base operation. With his son Charlie, he developed Palwaukee into a major business aviation hub. By 1986 it had grown from five employees and gravel runways to 200 employees and five paved runways, serving over 400 aircraft.

After selling the airport in 1986 and its FBO in 2001, the company shifted focus to charter and aircraft management. In 2013, Andy Priester became chairman, taking full ownership in 2021 as the third generation to lead the company.

Today, the business manages nearly 90 aircraft and operates under three brands: Priester in the Midwest, Mayo in the Rocky Mountain West and Hill in the Southeast. Its 1945 Card offers flexible jet card options. Andy Priester says the company continues to honour its founder’s vision while adapting to modern aviation needs.