Hi! I can help you find the right aircraft, check availability, explore financing and training options, or connect you with our team. Ask me anything to get started.
About Premier
Crafting Aviation Legacies: Premier Aircraft's Journey
Premier Aircraft Sales is a global leader in the sale of new and pre-owned piston and turbine aircraft. Founded in 2003, Premier is the largest U.S. authorized dealer for Diamond Aircraft — with over 2,200 sales to date and a reputation built on integrity, expertise, and a genuine passion for aviation.
- Founded
- 2003
- Aircraft sold
- 2,200+
- FAA-approved repair stations
- 3
- Countries served
- 32
Who We Are
Premier Aircraft Sales is a global leader in the sale of new and pre-owned piston and turbine aircraft. Founded in 2003, Premier is the largest U.S. authorized dealer for Diamond Aircraft. With over 2,200 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 very-light jets.
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.
View Services
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.
Meet The Team
Our team is comprised of genuinely gifted minds
Aircraft Sales
-
-
Jeff Owen
Vice President Aircraft Sales
Description
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.
-
Susan McKenzie
Vice President, Sales Coordination and Closings
Description
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.
-
Dirk Vander Zee
Regional Sales Manager
Description
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.
-
Mike Farley
Regional Sales Manager
Description
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.
-
Austin Rivero
Regional Sales Manager
Description
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.
-
Brett Hawse
Regional Sales Manager
Description
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.
-
Steven Vacek
Regional Sales Manager
Description
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.
-
-
Ryan Ross
Sales Representative
Description
I'm passionate about joining the sales team at Premier Aircraft Sales because it brings together everything I value most—aviation, relationships, and helping people make confident aircraft ownership decisions. With my background as a Captain at American Airlines, and my extensive general aviation experience, I understand both the operational and ownership side of aviation. I believe that perspective allows me to connect with buyers in a meaningful way and guide them with credibility, trust, and real-world experience. I'm especially drawn to Premier's reputation for integrity, customer service, and expertise in personally flown aircraft.
I'm currently a Captain at American Airlines, flying the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, with a career spanning military service, regional airline operations, and general aviation. I began my airline career in 2017 at a regional carrier before joining American in 2021. I served in the U.S. Navy from 2005 to 2013, where I built a strong foundation in leadership and decision-making—skills that continue to shape how I serve clients today. In addition to my airline experience, I've flown a variety of general aviation aircraft, including turboprops such as the Piper PA-46, giving me a well-rounded perspective on both private and commercial aviation. I hold an Associate's degree in Professional Pilot Technology and a Bachelor's degree in Airport Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
I focus on building strong, lasting relationships and helping clients navigate aircraft transactions with clarity, trust, and attention to detail. Aviation has always been my passion, and I take pride in helping others find the right aircraft to match their mission and goals.
-
Flight Department
-
Nicholas Silva
Manager of Customer Service/CFI
Description
Nicholas Silva is a highly skilled professional pilot with over 1,500 hours of flight time across piston, turboprop, and turbojet aircraft. His diverse flying background and unwavering commitment to safety and service excellence make him a key asset to the Premier Aircraft Sales team.
Nicholas's passion for aviation began at an early age. Growing up near Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport—now his home base—he spent countless afternoons with his father watching airplanes take off and land, igniting a lifelong enthusiasm for flight.
After earning his pilot certifications, Nicholas began his career as a flight instructor, where he spent nearly two years mentoring new pilots. He then advanced to flying the Saab 340 as a first officer for a Miami-based cargo operator, gaining valuable experience in commercial operations.
Today, Nicholas serves as both our Customer Service Manager and lead pilot. He brings a unique blend of technical expertise and customer-centric focus to every flight and interaction. His dedication to innovation and aviation safety ensures our clients receive the highest standards of professionalism and care.
-
Weronika Ross
Assistant Chief Pilot/CFI
Description
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
-
Dennis Allard
Director of Maintenance
Description
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
-
David Seastead
Director of Maintenance Texas
Description
I got my A&P in 2010 and my IA in 2013. I ran a flight school mx program in soCal for about eight years before being hired by PAS in 2020 to open and run a Diamond service center in FTW to support their new dealership territory. Married in 2014, son in 2015 and daughter in 2018. Hobbies include woodworking, 3d printing, classic cars and guns.
-
Brittany Jones
Manager of Service Operations
Description
Brittany has been with the company for 18 years. She started as a parts assistant, then moved to Warranty Administrator. She then became Parts Manager in 2012. Now she is Manager of Service Operations.
-
Louis Tavarez
Parts Manager
Description
Louis started his Aviation Journey here with us at Premier Aircraft as the Parts Assistant where he has grown and now will be our Parts Manager.
Administration
-
Paul Pergament
Chief Financial Officer
Description
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!).
-
Aly Garcia
Office Manager
Description
Aircraft Photographer and Advertising with 7 years in the aviation industry and over 20 years of experience in a professional office setting.
-
Sue Glassman
Accounting & HR Coordinator
Description
Sue has been in the Aviation industry for 25 years and employed with Premier Aircraft since 2004. She has been in Service Shop since it opened in 2005. As she has been our Manager of Service Operations for the last 15 years, she will now be moving into Accounting and HR.
Where we operate
Three Diamond Authorized Service Centers and FAA-approved repair stations across the country — each staffed by factory-trained A&P mechanics and FAA inspectors.
In our customers' words
-
"Premier Texas’ level of service was much better than other aircraft service companies I’ve used in the past."
Kevin Williams — Colorado 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 Bechervaise — Markham, Ontario
-
"The people are knowledgeable and happy to discuss issues and service needs."
Garry Copeland — Florida
-
"Ray, Sammy and Raymond all did an excellent job with my Mooney!"
Dale Bruschi — Florida
-
"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 Uramkin — Florida
-
"Everyone on staff understood that time was of the essence and did everything in their power to complete the work as quickly as possible."
Philli — Texas
-
"They did a great job of explaining the changes made to the G500."
Michael — New Hampshire
-
"What I like most about the service was the return time and the communication with Premier."
Carlos — Florida
-
"I was extremely satisfied with Premier’s attentiveness and how timely and well-done the work was."
Hector — Florida
Premier Aircraft is your ticket to a new altitude
Buying, selling, servicing, or training — our team is one phone call away.
"We won't sell an airplane we wouldn't own ourselves."