ACE 2026 - The home of global charter.
The bimonthly news publication for aviation professionals.
Sharing a common service and relationship-based philosophy within charter operations, Maxair and Elite Jets are now coming alongside other legacy brands as part of the largest group of family led aviation companies. Maxair and Elite Jets are combining forces with Priester Aviation, Mayo Aviation, Hill Private Aviation and Omni Private Aviation, within the George J. Priester Aviation network, adding to the collective's 80-year history of aviation services.
“This partnership brings together organisations that share a passion in delivering high-touch ownerships and charter experience built on safety, service and long-term relationships,” says chairman Andy Priester. “Maxair and Elite Jets are experts in owned aircraft charter; Priester, Mayo, Hill and Omni specialise in aircraft management and ad hoc charter. Bringing these capabilities together creates new opportunities to serve clients more comprehensively while expanding opportunities for team members over time.”
Maxair, based in Appleton, Wisconsin, and Elite Jets in Naples, Florida complement Priester's existing legacy bases in the Midwest, Rocky Mountain West, Southeast and South Central regions. The companies will all share operational expertise and regional relationships with the group's resources and infrastructure, strengthening service capabilities for aircraft owners and charter customers across the country.
“We're honoured 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,” states Priester. “This approach allows great aviation companies to focus on doing what they do best in their communities.”
Together, Maxair and Elite Jets bring 17 aircraft into the broader fleet, nearly all available for charter, including Embraer Phenom 300s, a Legacy 500, Gulfstream G200s and a Gulfstream GV. Like the other members of the group, both Maxair and Elite Jets will continue to be regionally focused, retaining the historic names clients have trusted for years.
The alignment allows aircraft owners and travellers greater access to a larger network of aircraft, experienced flight crews, operational expertise and enhanced charter opportunities in markets across the US.
The collaboration also reflects the group's continued commitment to long-term, family-managed leadership in private aviation, building on more than 80 years of experience with the industry's highest standards of safety and service. George J. Priester Aviation partnered with Invision Capital to facilitate the company agreements.