Hartzell Engine Tech acquires Kelly Aero, announces rebrand

Hartzell Engine Tech announced Monday it had acquired the assets of Kelly Aero, a leading manufacturer of aftermarket aircraft magnetos, replacement parts and ignition harnesses for General Aviation and Military applications. Starting in early 2024 and following a detailed technical evaluation and receipt of PMA approval, Hartzell Engine Tech will rebrand the Kelly Aero products as PowerUp Ignition Systems. PowerUp Ignition Systems will be the largest operation in the Hartzell Engine Tech product portfolio, joining with Fuelcraft, Janitrol Aero, Sky-Tec, Plane-Power and AeroForce Turbocharger Systems. Hartzell will incorporate the new production within its main manufacturing facility in Montgomery, Alabama. With the latest acquisition, Hartzell Engine Tech's total employment will increase by about 40 employees. Kelly Aero's former Montgomery facility will be used to expand the capacity of the existing Hartzell machine shop. The customer direct magneto service work will be completed at Quality Aircraft Accessories, Hartzell Engine Tech's sister company in Tulsa, Oklahoma and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.RELATED STORY:Arcline Investment Management acquiring Hartzell Aviation On Oct. 16 Hartzell Aviation announced that the private equity firm Arcline Investment Management signed a definitive agreement to acquire the company from Tailwind Technologies. Hartzell, known for designing and manufacturing proprietary aircraft subsystems and aftermarket components, operates under two business units, Hartzell Propeller and Hartzell Engine Tech. Hartzell Propeller is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of high-performance propeller systems, components and accessories. Hartzell Engine Tech designs, manufactures and supplies aircraft engine accessories and products like turbochargers, starters, alternators, starter adapters, fuel pumps, magnetos, cabin heaters, exhaust systems and engine mounts. Hartzell has a history dating back to the time of the Wright brothers, with its founding in 1917. With over 100 years in the industry, Hartzell has grown to become a globally known and distinguished brand. Now, Hartzell is growing as a portfolio company of Arcline, with its latest investment in Kelly Aero growing upon its engine brand. "With this acquisition, Hartzell Engine Tech is excited to add manufacturing capabilities for aircraft ignition products to our existing lines of engineered, firewall forward, engine accessories," Hartzell Engine Tech President Keith Bagley said. "We extend our appreciation to Jeffrey Kelly, his family and Neil Clark for creating and stewarding a great product line that will integrate nicely with Hartzell Aviation's Built on Honor philosophy."