Bill Gardner
Chairman & CEO
Meridian Aerospace Group
Bill Gardner has over 35 years in the aviation business having joined Piper Aircraft Corporation in 1968. After a succession of international and domestic sales positions culminating as Director of Worldwide Dealer Development, he joined Piedmont Aviation and in 1974 became Vice-President of the General Aviation Group.
Subsequently, he was promoted to the airline division of Piedmont where he became Managing Director of the Piedmont Commuter System until it merged with USAir in 1989. At its peak, the Piedmont Commuter System operated 135 aircraft ranging in size from Beech 99’s to Dash 8’s.
In October of 1989, he formed the Meridian Group comprised of Aerospace, Jet Prop and Aviation Services. Over the subsequent years, the two companies have achieved high degrees of success in jet and regional aircraft remarketing. Meridian is pleased to number many of the world's leading banks, leasing companies and airlines among its lengthy client list, accounting for over 550 sales and lease transactions.
Additionally, the Meridian Group of Companies works closely with several airframe manufacturers on substantive matters of market value and used aircraft placement.
A Commercial Pilot with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings for 40 years, Bill is a member of the Wings Club of New York and the Quiet Birdmen. He holds a BA degree in Economics and Political Science from Washington and Jefferson College. The father of four grown children, Bill and his wife Mary Ann reside in Winston-Salem, N.C., where his wife is a Certified Public Accountant.
