Hartzell Propeller buys WhirlWind Propellers, expands light-sport portfolio

Hartzell Propeller announced Wednesday it has acquired WhirlWind Propellers Corporation, expanding the company's light-sport aircraft portfolio. With the recent purchase, Hartzell has acquired WhirlWind Propellers assets and plans to retain the brand and product offerings. WhirlWind Propellers was founded in 1995 and manufactures composite constant-speed and ground-adjustable propellers for the light-sport, experimental and unmanned aircraft markets. The company also designs proof-of-concept propellers for new, emerging applications. "The acquisition allows Hartzell to further expand WhirlWind's rapid propeller development capabilities for the design, tooling and manufacturing of advanced carbon composite propellers," Hartzell Propeller President JJ Frigge said. Former President of WhirlWind Propellers Jim Rust will be joining the Hartzell team, using his technological expertise with rapid prototyping composite propeller systems to bolster Hartzell's existing capabilities. "I am excited to be part of the Hartzell Propeller team and eager to see the WhirlWind brand continue to thrive under Hartzell's leadership," Rust said.