Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver

Post Published February 6, 2025

See how everyone can now afford to fly Business Class and book 5 Star Hotels with Mighty Travels Premium! Get started for free.







The recent purchase of Hill Aviation by Priester Aviation has now created a private charter connection spanning from Atlanta to Denver. It's a move that underscores Priester's intention to grow, focusing on integrating what they see as customer-centric, family-owned businesses into their fold. While Hill Aviation will retain its branding, it now gains access to Priester's resources. This development should, in theory, improve service quality at Atlanta's Fulton County Executive Airport.

A new agreement between Priester Aviation and Hill Aviation now creates a private charter connection linking Atlanta and Denver. This development suggests a revised pricing framework might be in place, possibly leading to cheaper options for flyers wanting to travel between the two cities.

Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson, a global air travel hub processing over 100 million passengers annually, faces huge demand. Denver International, recognized for its architectural design and massive land area, should now be better equipped to manage the rising volume of private jets.

Private flights have shown a track record of cutting airport wait times significantly, allowing passengers to arrive shortly before departure, compared to scheduled flights' usual requirements.

This charter merger seems part of a broader movement in the aviation sector where private jet travel is becoming somewhat more attainable. The elevation contrast between Atlanta and Denver could also impact flight effectiveness, where smaller jets usually handle this disparity better than bigger jets.

With Denver experiencing a rise in visitor numbers in recent years, driven by outdoor offerings and cultural events, the demand for private air options keeps growing. Some charters also give frequent flyer style rewards for potential benefits and cost savings in the long run.

What else is in this post?

  1. Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver - Private Charter Network Now Links Atlanta and Denver After Hill Aviation Deal
  2. Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver - Family Business Legacy Takes Off At Georgia's Dekalb Peachtree Airport
  3. Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver - Denver Airport Gets New Private Charter Terminal Through Acquisition
  4. Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver - Charter Rates Drop 15% On Atlanta Denver Route After Network Expansion
  5. Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver - Priester Adds 14 Business Jets To Charter Fleet During Network Growth
  6. Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver - New Atlanta Denver Service Competes With Commercial First Class Fares

Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver - Family Business Legacy Takes Off At Georgia's Dekalb Peachtree Airport





A long-standing name in Atlanta aviation, Epps Aviation at DeKalb Peachtree Airport, is changing hands as Priester Aviation continues to grow its charter flight network. Epps, a family-run operation with deep roots dating back to aviation pioneer Ben Epps, will transition into Atlanta's Family-Owned Icon FBO, signalling a continuation of the family business spirit. The integration into Priester's operations will test the ability to maintain the existing standard of service, safety, and reliability. It remains to be seen if customers will see real improvements.

The merger of Epps' local knowledge with Priester's broader resources could provide opportunities to meet increased demand for private flights in the region. While charter services are often touted for convenience, accessibility improvements for the average traveler are always welcome. Whether this deal leads to such improvements needs to be observed.

A significant development has unfolded at Georgia's Dekalb Peachtree Airport (PDK) with the sale of Epps Aviation to a large operator with multiple locations in the USA. PDK, being the second busiest airport in Georgia, mainly handles smaller general aviation. This takeover raises questions about the future of the Epps family's legacy, a name synonymous with aviation in the region; the family aviation operation in Georgia was founded in 1965. Ben Epps, Georgia's first aviator, started it all. Even more interestingly, all his sons and most daughters learned how to fly.

It will be interesting to see how operations are handled moving forward and the branding with a potential name change of this Atlanta hub as Atlanta's Family-Owned Icon FBO. PDK's location, barely outside Atlanta, means charter flights can simply skip the ever-crowded and chaotic Hartsfield-Jackson, potentially cutting down travel time for people willing to pay extra. As flight times from Atlanta to Denver are around 2 hours with a distance of 1400 miles, charter operations would most likely use smaller and mid-sized planes.



Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver - Denver Airport Gets New Private Charter Terminal Through Acquisition





Denver International Airport has welcomed a new private charter terminal thanks to a recent acquisition by Priester Aviation. This development could alleviate some pressure on the airport's existing infrastructure, offering private flyers more efficient service. The new terminal fits within Priester's strategy to enlarge its charter network, concentrating on important cities like Denver and Atlanta.

Given the continuous growth in Denver, boosted by both leisure and business, the need for diverse flight options has risen sharply. Charter services will aim to meet this demand, potentially offering better service and convenience. However, it remains to be seen if this translates into real improvements for the majority of travelers. Ongoing expansions at Denver International might signal a more accommodating environment for the upswing in private flights.

Denver International Airport, already a massive hub, has a new development: Priester Aviation is taking over a private charter terminal. This acquisition is a play to enhance its operational footprint, offering tailored private aviation services. It seems the company is keen on solidifying its position in key locations, as seen with their expansions in both Denver and Atlanta.

The addition of a dedicated private charter terminal at Denver Airport has implications for streamlining private jet operations, from improved handling to expedited processing. This also aligns with the airport's ongoing expansion to manage a consistent and steady flow of private flights. It's worth noting that the operational performance of the new terminal, and whether it translates to tangible service quality advancements, remains to be observed over time. The long term impact on the Denver airport, with its ever increasing passenger volume, will have to be carefully measured over time.



Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver - Charter Rates Drop 15% On Atlanta Denver Route After Network Expansion





Charter rates on the popular Atlanta to Denver route have seen a notable drop of 15% following Priester Aviation's recent network expansion. This reduction appears to be a result of Priester's strategic acquisitions, with promises of enhanced service connectivity and operational efficiency. While these strategic moves might sound promising, it's worth questioning whether such operational changes will genuinely trickle down to more tangible benefits for customers beyond pricing. With consistent demand for private flights, this adjustment may indeed stimulate further interest in charter services between these key cities.

Charter rates on the Atlanta-Denver route have experienced a decline of 15% following recent network expansions. This price shift might signify growing competition among charter providers. Priester Aviation's strategic integration of family-run aviation businesses in Atlanta and Denver may have created a more competitive environment. Such moves can increase service options and improve operational efficiencies.

This expansion appears designed to broaden Priester Aviation’s presence in these key aviation markets. By incorporating these businesses, the company may now benefit from established customer relationships and specialized local knowledge. The company could then meet demand with more cost-effective choices in response to shifting consumer demands. While many may benefit, this 15% decrease may reflect only a larger movement of price adjustments in this sector and its long term reliability remains to be seen.



Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver - Priester Adds 14 Business Jets To Charter Fleet During Network Growth





Priester Aviation has recently bolstered its charter fleet by adding 14 business jets, reflecting a significant step in its growth strategy within the private aviation sector. This expansion brings the total number of managed aircraft to nearly 90, enhancing Priester's ability to cater to the rising demand for private travel. The company's focus on integrating family-owned aviation businesses in critical markets such as Atlanta and Denver aims to improve service efficiency and operational capabilities.

This move follows on acquisitions of family-owned companies that focused on the charter business model. With these additions, Priester is positioning itself to offer a more diverse range of travel options, potentially benefiting travelers seeking convenience in their air travel experiences. However, the long-term implications of this expansion on service quality and customer satisfaction remain to be seen. It will be interesting if these family businesses manage to keep the original spirit of the business going, now under new leadership.

Priester Aviation seems intent on amplifying its charter flight offerings, evidenced by the recent addition of 14 business jets to its managed fleet. This considerable expansion raises questions about aircraft utilization rates in the sector. Private jets typically clock fewer flight hours annually compared to commercial airliners, so how will Priester ensure optimal use of this expanded fleet?

This increase in aircraft capacity coincides with Priester's acquisition-led growth in Atlanta and Denver, furthering its charter network strategy. This move toward what could be called 'private charter regionalization' invites scrutiny. Will it streamline operations, leading to demonstrable customer advantages, or simply consolidate market share? The promise of customer-centricity will undoubtedly face real-world tests as operations are scaled up.



Priester Aviation Expands Charter Flight Network Through Strategic Family Business Acquisitions in Atlanta and Denver - New Atlanta Denver Service Competes With Commercial First Class Fares





Priester Aviation has introduced a new charter flight option linking Atlanta and Denver, directly targeting the commercial first-class market. This service promises flexibility and a customized experience for both business and leisure travelers. With the addition of Dornier Jet services in Atlanta for the first time in decades, passengers have access to an elevated travel choice. As more airlines expand their premium seating options, this service could appeal to those seeking convenience and luxury, despite increasing competition within the industry. Whether this move will genuinely lead to improvements for customers in service standards remains to be observed.

Priester's strategy hinges on offering a competitive alternative to commercial first-class travel between Atlanta and Denver, a route where demand for premium travel options remains strong. The assumption seems to be that some travelers are willing to pay a premium for the convenience and time savings offered by private aviation. With average annual flying hours being only 200-300, operational efficiency has to be questioned.

It's worth looking into just how Priester intends to undercut the established airlines, as the cost structure for private charters can be quite different. With average commercial flights reaching 1500+ hours, there seems to be room for improvement in operational efficiency. Also how smaller regional airports can aid travelers. The integration of booking and comparison, much like commercial booking systems, can enhance pricing.

The promise of competing with first-class fares also needs deeper analysis. Fuel costs, maintenance, landing fees, and crew salaries can quickly add up. How does Priester plan to offer pricing that appeals to a broader market segment without sacrificing profitability? Will there be loyalty programs, like those of commercial travel? And is it sustainable?

Also, most private jets operate between 30,000 to 45,000 feet which could result in smoother flights with fewer weather related issues. How can travellers expect a price structure to accomodate?

See how everyone can now afford to fly Business Class and book 5 Star Hotels with Mighty Travels Premium! Get started for free.