Priester Aviation

Priester Aviation is a private aviation company based at Chicago Executive Airport in Wheeling, Illinois. Founded in 1945, it manages business aircraft for owners, flies on-demand charter and runs a jet card programme. Its tagline is "We take aviation personally", and the Priester family is still involved in the business.

Services

• Aircraft management: full-service Part 91 or Part 135 flight department management, with administration, crewing, flight operations and maintenance coordination
• Charter Ally: owners keep full control of the aircraft while offsetting costs with charter
• Flight Department Solutions: pick only the services you need, such as Flight Concierge, Maintenance Support or Flight Service Partner
• On-demand private jet charter with point-to-point pricing, from US$4,000 an hour and daily minimums from US$11,500
• 1945 Jet Card: from 25 hours, immediate booking, guaranteed availability and no blackout dates
• Maintenance services and planning for Part 91 business jet operators
• Empty leg specials

Fleet

The charter fleet covers turboprop, light, midsize, super midsize and heavy jets. The Pilatus PC-12 turboprop is offered for short trips and mountain airports such as Aspen, Rifle and Eagle. Earlier listings mention Gulfstream and Bombardier Challenger jets in the managed fleet. The company also uses a vetted partner network.

Operations

A global operations centre is staffed around the clock. Priester says every aircraft is maintained and operated as if it were part of an exclusive flight department.

What clients say

"Down-to-earth way of welcoming people like friends and not just customers."

"From my first inquiry about booking a flight to our arrival at our destination, your efficiency, excellent communication, and customer service has been exemplary."

In the press

Priester Aviation has been covered by Robb Report, Forbes, AIN and Crain's.

Contact

2001 S. Wolf Road, Wheeling, IL 60090, United States

FAQ

How old is Priester Aviation?

It was founded in 1945, more than 75 years ago.

What does charter cost?

Flights start at US$4,000 an hour with daily minimums from US$11,500, according to the company.

What is the 1945 Jet Card?

A charter card from 25 hours with immediate booking, guaranteed availability and custom pricing based on your mission profile.

Details from priesterav.com, October 2026.