VIENNA, Ohio — Winner Aviation Corporation has appointed Neil Gallagher to succeed Rick Hale as president effective immediately. Hale will continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer and will take on a new role as chairman. Gallagher previously held the position of vice president of maintenance.
Since joining the company in 2012, Gallagher was responsible for the maintenance division and expanding Winner Aviation’s product line of aircraft maintenance services for both their current and prospective customers as well as developing new products and services.
“Neil is a proven leader and we look forward to his leadership skills that will enhance Winner Aviation’s position in the industry,” said Rick Hale, CEO of Winner Aviation. “I look forward to this transition, as this will give me the opportunity to continue to focus on the growth and future of Winner Aviation as Chairman and CEO.”
Gallagher began his career in 1984 as a jet mechanic on the F-16 aircraft. Following his four years in the military, he worked for Eastern, Midway and Airborne Express Airlines as an A&P Mechanic. He transitioned from the maintenance ranks to the flight deck serving as second officer for the Emery Worldwide Airlines on the Boeing 727 and DC8 aircraft. Gallagher flew for Emery Airlines for seven years before joining Flight Options as a Maintenance Controller. He worked for Flight Options for 10 years and has served as a Maintenance Controller, Lead Controller, Engine Manager, Manager of Maintenance Planning, General Manager of Maintenance Control Center and Director of Line Stations.
Winner Aviation operates a full-service FBO, aircraft maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO) facility and provides all aircraft storage and movement services at the Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport in Vienna, Ohio. The MRO facility capabilities include jet, turbine and piston service centers along with an avionics repair and installation shop, an engine repair and overhaul shop and a full-service parts department.