Hartzell Engine Tech Acquires Aftermarket Manufacturer Kelly Aero

Hartzell Engine Tech announced its acquisition of Kelly Aero, a Montgomery, Alabama-based manufacturer of aftermarket aircraft magnetos, replacement parts and ignition harnesses.

Hartzell, a portfolio company of Arcline Investment Management, plans to rename the newly-acquired products as PowerUp Ignition Systems. They will become the company’s largest operation in its product portfolio, which also includes Janitrol Aero, Fuelcraft, Plane-Power, Sky-Tec and AeroForce Turbocharger Systems.

“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.”

According to Hartzell, Kelly Aero’s former facility in Montgomery will be added to Hartzell’s existing machine shop. As a direct result of the acquisition, Hartzell’s total employment will increase by approximately 40 jobs.

Additionally, Hartzell’s customer direct magneto services will be completed by its sister company, Quality Aircraft Accessories, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.