Hartzell Propeller’s president JJ Frigge took a few moments at the beginning of Sun ‘n Fun Day 2 to talk about the recent acquisition of Whirlwind, competing propeller manufacturer very popular in the Experimental world. The plan is to bring manufacturing to the Hartzell HQ in Piqua, Ohio, rather than leave it in San Diego, California, where founder Jim Rust began the business. Frigge says the transition could take six months, but the factory in San Diego will remain online as long as possible to prevent supply interruptions. Rust, for his part, will remain with Whirlwind under new ownership for at least a year. Moreover, Frigge says there are no plans to rebrand the Whirlwind products as Hartzell, saying the brand has a great reputation and recognizable name.
In Case You Missed it
Mike and Laura Starkey’s RANS S-21: Part 7
Let’s take a moment to catch you up on our RANS S-21 build: So...
Wind Tunnel
Airplanes are surprisingly flexible, and changes in their shape can affect aerodynamic characteristics. Barnaby Wainfan explains how the two are coupled.
Alternative Energies
Dean Sigler - 0
Dean Sigler checks in on the Green Flight Challengers of 2011 who didn’t make it to the competition to see what they’re up to now.
Whats New
Sunbeam light from AeroLEDs, dealer agreement for Titan EXP engines, Snap-on LED Hybrid Light and Pioneer Aircraft’s new wood grip.