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Crafting Aviation Legacies: Premier Aircraft's Journey

Who We Are

Premier Aircraft Sales is a global leader in the sale of new and preowned piston and turbine aircraft. Founded in 2003, Premier is the largest U.S. authorized dealer for Diamond Aircraft. With over 2,000 sales to date, we’re a leading dealer in the sale of personally-flown aircraft, from new Diamond singles and twins through turbine aircraft like Meridians, TBMs, Pilatus, King Airs and VLJs.  

The company is also one of the largest sellers and brokers of Piper, Mooney, Cessna, Beechcraft, Cirrus and other aircraft. The company has Diamond Sales and Service Center locations in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Fort Worth, Texas and Norwood, Massachusetts.  

Every takeoff is a testament to our commitment to excellence

Premier Aircraft boasts an unrivaled wealth of brand knowledge with our sales team amassing over 330 years of combined experience in general aviation sales, covering both piston and turbine aircraft. Our team includes 10 licensed pilots, collectively boasting more than 90,000 hours of flight time. With such seasoned expertise at our disposal, we stand ready to recommend the absolute best aircraft for your needs, whether for personal or business use.
We work hard to ensure our customers receive the very best value possible, on new purchases and trades.  Your representative is personally involved in all aspects of your transaction, from advising you on the right aircraft and price point for your mission to helping you find financing and insurance, coordinating pre-buy inspections, solving problems, and overseeing the closing and delivery processes.  We are a high-integrity company, devoted to our customers, our partners and our employees. Our mission is to be the national leader in sales of high-quality, personally flown aircraft. We intend to reach our sales goal, in part, by being the best customer service company in the industry. 

Our team is comprised of genuinely gifted minds

Aircraft Sales

CEO

Travis Peffer

754-301-2486

Vice President Aircraft Sales

Jeff Owen

754-301-2476

Jeff Owen is a seasoned general aviation sales and marketing professional with over 35 years of experience in aircraft manufacturing, sales, marketing, and business development. As Vice President of Sales at Premier, he provides leadership to the sales team.

Owen says, “I am privileged to share my passion along with the excitement, fun, safety, and convenience that a general aviation airplane can offer. Matching that with Premier’s integrity, honesty, and unconditional commitment to our customer’s satisfaction is an unbeatable combination.”

With over 5,000 hours of flight experience, Owen holds a private pilot certificate with multi-engine and instrument ratings. Before joining Premier more than a decade ago, he served as Executive Vice President and Sales Manager for Diamond Aircraft Industries North America, Cessna Aircraft Dealer Development & CPC Manager, Cessna District Sales Manager, and a licensed aviation insurance broker.

Vice President, Sales Coordination and Closings

Susan McKenzie

754-301-2480

Susan has been an integral part of Premier from day one, bringing with her the experience of holding a commercial pilot’s license with multi-engine and instrument ratings.

In a very short time, Premier became the highest-volume Diamond and Mooney dealer, closing 10-plus transactions a month. To keep pace with demand, Susan was promoted to the company’s dedicated Closing Manager.

No matter the situation, Susan’s personality and professionalism have played a major role in establishing the great reputation for personalized service that Premier enjoys.

When she isn’t working, she enjoys playing and competing in USTA Tennis.

Regional Sales Manager

Dirk Vander Zee

817-945-3394

Aviation sales and management professional, 30+ years in corporate, agricultural, and owner flown aircraft sales. Commercial pilot with 8,000 hours flight time. Two adult children, a son and daughter, active in motorsports, diving, and travel. I’m proud to represent Premier Aircraft, an industry leader in this market, in Texas, New Mexico, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma.
Regional Sales Manager

Mike Farley

407-810-6799

A Regional Sales Manager with over 40 years of aviation experience, including the last 12 years in aircraft sales.

When he is not helping customers find the perfect airplane, Mike, who holds an Airline Transport Pilot’s License with over 22,000 hours, is working at his other job as an airline captain.

An aircraft owner himself, Mike specializes in Diamond Aircraft. It was during the purchase of his second of three Diamond Aircraft that he began working in aircraft sales. He currently owns a Diamond DA42, which he enjoys flying whenever possible.

Regional Sales Manager

Austin Rivero

754-240-4049

When I meet people at airshows, FBOs, or sales demos, I always seem to get asked the same question: "What made you decide you wanted to work in aviation?" The truth is, I never made that decision. From my earliest family vacations, my favorite part wasn’t the beach or the mountains—it was the airplane ride.

Looking back, working in aviation wasn’t a choice; it was the pursuit of a passion. At 17, I landed a job cleaning planes at my local flight school in Fort Worth, Texas. I worked my way up, eventually finding myself in a sales position with a new company, all while attending Texas Christian University. A few years later, I joined Premier Aircraft because of its outstanding reputation. I quickly learned that in this industry, reputation is everything—so the choice was clear.

I LOVE what I do and still find myself amazed at how it all came together. My "office" is either inside a hangar, preparing to deliver a beautifully hand-crafted, multi-million dollar machine, or watching the sunrise or sunset from 10,000 feet. I hold private, instrument, and multi-engine certificates/ratings and am always eager to earn more! When I’m not in the office, you can usually find me boating, fishing, scuba diving, or enjoying the many perks of living in South Florida.

Regional Sales Manager

Brett Hawse

817-945-3394

Brett Hawse is a seasoned aviation professional with a strong background in business and sales. A commercial multi-engine rated pilot and certified IADA aircraft broker, Brett combines his expertise in aviation with years of experience in high-value transactions.

Graduating from the University of Southern California in 2003 with a BS in Public Policy and Business Management, Brett spent 15 years in the retail automotive industry, honing his skills in negotiation, client relations, and strategic growth. He then transitioned to the renewable energy sector, contributing to innovative startups for four years before ultimately following his lifelong passion for aviation.

Having earned his Private Pilot License (PPL) in 2002, Brett made the pivotal decision in 2020 to fully immerse himself in the aviation industry. Today, he leverages his diverse background to provide exceptional service in aircraft brokerage, helping clients navigate complex transactions with confidence and expertise.

With a commitment to integrity, market knowledge, and client success, Brett ensures every transaction is handled with precision and professionalism.

Regional Sales Manager

Steven Vacek

817-945-3338

As aviators, we have all been bitten by the flying "bug"; for most of us, it is a moment in time we will never forget. Personally, I was bitten by the bug when I was 11 years old during my first discovery flight. From that moment, I knew that aviation would forever be a part of my life.

While completing my B.S. in Business at The University of Texas at Dallas, I earned my PPL, further solidifying my aerial aspirations. My deep-rooted love for all things that fly drives me to continuously seek new heights, embracing the endless possibilities that the future holds.

Inspired by Albert Einstein's words, "Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value," I endeavor to make a meaningful impact within the aviation community. My journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.

Regional Sales Manager

Barry Rutheiser

754-301-2488

Interested in aviation since childhood, I began flying in the mid-1960s.
Aviation has defined me—I have owned 17 airplanes and love assisting others in purchasing their own aircraft.

Flight Department

Chief Pilot & Manager Customer Relations

Kamden Benedict

754-301-2485

Kamden Benedict is a seasoned aviator with nearly 2,000 flight hours and a wealth of experience in the skies. Currently serving as the Chief Pilot at Premier Aircraft Sales, Kamden's journey in aviation is built on a deep passion for flying and a commitment to excellence.

Originally from sunny Boca Raton, Florida, Kamden’s love for aviation was fostered in a place where the skies and waters often intersect, inspiring his pursuit of flight. Whether it's surfing, golfing, or spending time on the water, Kamden has always been drawn to activities that connect him with the great outdoors.

Before joining Premier Aircraft Sales, Kamden honed his skills as a flight instructor at American Flyers, where he not only imparted his knowledge to others but also earned his own pilot’s licenses during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. This experience gave him invaluable insight into the learning process and a strong foundation for his career in aviation.

Kamden is a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII), and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI), with over 1,000 hours flown in the Diamond DA62, DA50, and DA40. He has become widely known in the aviation community, with rumors circulating that he may be the highest-time DA50 pilot in the country—an impressive distinction that speaks to his expertise and dedication to his craft.

At Premier Aircraft Sales, Kamden is not only a skilled pilot but also a leader, committed to advancing the company’s mission of providing top-tier aviation services. With a reputation built on skill, experience, and a genuine passion for flying, Kamden Benedict continues to soar to new heights in the world of aviation.

Assistant Chief Pilot/CFI

Weronika Ross

954-636-6742

My name is Weronika, and I am from Poland. My passion for aviation started four years ago when I met a pilot at Miami International Airport who became my best friend and, later on, my husband. One year after that event, I signed up for my Private Pilot License. It would never have crossed my mind that I would be training future pilots, but like they say, "Never say never."

Now, as a Certified Flight Instructor, I believe it is one of the best ways to understand aviation and its fundamentals. I am very excited about the new challenges that aviation has for me, and earning my seaplane rating is definitely on my bucket list.

In my free time, I love spending time outdoors, especially in beautiful, sunny Florida. I have known Premier for quite some time, and I can't wait to be part of this amazing family.

Maintenance

Director of Maintenance

Dennis Allard

754-301-2490

SIMCOM Factory Trained – Piper PA-46 Course

FlightSafety Factory Trained – Pratt & Whitney PT6A Small and Medium Series

Airframe and Powerplant Certified since 2015

Inspector Authorization since 2021

Director of Maintenance Texas

David Seastead

817-945-9191

Vice President of Customer Service

Samuel Tavarez

754-301-2494

Navy Veteran with over 29 years of aviation experience and 19+ years working with diesel-powered aircraft. Factory trained on Diamond Aircraft, Austro Engine, and Continental Aerospace in Germany. Recognized as one of the top diesel aircraft technicians in the U.S., I have traveled worldwide to resolve diesel aircraft engine issues and oversee all diesel-powered aircraft maintenance.
Chief Inspector

Emmanuel Vicioso

754-301-2483

Inspector and Repair Station Quality Manager specializing in General Aviation.

Enjoys running and biking.

Passionate about trying food from different cultures.

Loves exploring and adventure travel.

Parts Manager

Brittany Glassman

754-301-2475

Manager of Service Operations

Sue Glassman

754-301-2492

Graduated from Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute, Binghamton, NY.
Attended Broome Community College, Binghamton, NY.

With 30 years of experience in office management positions, I moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 1996.

I have been employed with Premier Aircraft Sales and Service since 2004 and have been working at the Service Shop since it opened in 2005.

I have been in the aviation industry for 24 years.

Administration

Chief Financial Officer

Paul Pergament

754-301-2476

Joined Premier Aircraft in 2004 as Chief Financial Officer.

On a personal level, my wife and I love cruises, traveling, and bike riding.

Big hockey fan and long-time season ticket holder for the Florida Panthers.

Avid Bruce Springsteen fan for 43 years—seen him in concert 26 times (amazing memories!).

Office Manager

Aly Garcia

754-301-2474

Aircraft Photographer and Advertising with 7 years in the aviation industry and over 20 years of experience in a professional office setting.
Accounting & HR Coordinator

Edna Massa-Jimenez

817-945-3394

I have worked in the aircraft industry for over 32 years and have been with Premier Aircraft Sales for 19 years. I am married, have two daughters and two granddaughters. I love to travel and enjoy chocolate.
Founder & Regional Sales Manager

Fred Ahles

954-328-9280

Years in Aviation: 59
Years at Premier Aircraft: 2003–2023

After a lifetime in the aircraft industry as a pilot, aircraft salesman, FBO owner, and Piper dealership manager, four of us started Premier in 2003. As CEO, I was proud to grow our team into the leading dealer of Diamond and Mooney aircraft in the world within five years.

Our strategy was founded in our Mission Statement—"dedicated to our customers, partners, and employees." After selling Premier in 2019, I stepped down as CEO in 2020.

I am proud of the job that Travis, Paul, Jeff, Susan, Sam, David, and all the great people at Premier have done since my retirement from active leadership. I am confident this group will be an industry leader for many years to come!

Premier Texas’ level of service was much better than other aircraft service companies I’ve used in the past.

Kevin WilliamsColorado Springs

Premier worked with us and the FAA to get the required MIP certifications in order to work on our Canadian Commercial Aircraft. Thank you.

Scott BechervaiseMarkham, Ontario

The people are knowledgeable and happy to discuss issues and service needs.

Garry CopelandFlorida

Ray, Sammy and Raymond all did an excellent job with my Mooney!

Dale BruschiFlorida

I, as well as my wife, want to thank you for your prompt attention to 262DS. We greatly appreciate it. The repairs look absolutely fantastic!

Michael UramkinFlorida

Everyone on staff understood that time was of the essence and did everything in their power to complete the work as quickly as possible.

PhilliTexas

They did a great job of explaining the changes made to the G500.

MichaelNew Hampshire

What I like most about the service was the return time and the communication with Premier.

CarlosFlorida

I was extremely satisfied with Premier’s attentiveness and how timely and well-done the work was.

HectorFlorida

Premier Aircraft is your ticket to a new altitude

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