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Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering Introduces New STC for Dual Aft Body Strakes on Cessna Caravan 208B

Seattle, WA – 16 August 2023 – Raisbeck Engineering, a leading innovator in aircraft performance enhancements, is proud to announce the issuance of a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA02741SE for the installation of dual aft body strakes on the Cessna Caravan 208B. This enhancement is designed to optimize the aircraft’s aerodynamics, further improving its overall performance and operational capabilities.

The Cessna Caravan 208B, a versatile workhorse in the field of regional and utility aviation, has already demonstrated its prowess in various mission profiles. With the introduction of Raisbeck Engineering’s new STC, the aircraft’s performance envelope is set to expand, benefiting operators across the globe.

“Our dual aft body strakes smooth the airflow from the cargo pod and forward fuselage, improving directional stability and pilot control. I like to say they make the tail follow the nose.  But that is not all, in addition to the improved lateral stability, our Dual Aft Body Strakes reduce drag, improving cruise performance. The last thing I should point out is that this STC allows operators to build our EPIC Caravan incrementally, adding the strakes first followed by the forward cargo pod fairing later,” said Hal Chrisman, President at Raisbeck Engineering.

The new dual aft body strakes for the Cessna Caravan 208B are available immediately, interested operators are encouraged to reach out to their Raisbeck representative for more information on installation procedures and pricing.

Raisbeck Engineering is a renowned leader in aircraft performance improvements. With a rich history of innovation, Raisbeck Engineering develops and certifies modifications for a wide range of aircraft, enhancing their capabilities, efficiency, and overall performance. For more information, please visit https://raisbeck.com.

Five-Year GSA Contract Expands Raisbeck’s Footprint in Government Arena

Raisbeck Engineering, a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business, commercial and military aircraft, today announced that it has been awarded a General Service Administration Multiple Award Schedule contract (MAS). The contract, which took effect September 30, 2022, is valid for five years with three five-year option periods.

The GSA Schedule is significant in that it makes the company’s products accessible through a simplified buying process to state and federal government agencies, expanding the company’s footprint in the federal government marketplace. To qualify for GSA approval, the company went through a rigorous 18-month application process. Contractors selling through the GSA contract are carefully vetted beforehand and must have a proven track record within its industry. The GSA Multiple Award Schedule also provides a competitive advantage in the government sector since terms and conditions including pricing and warranties are previously agreed upon.

“We are very excited to receive a GSA Contract Award,” stated Raisbeck President Hal Chrisman. “Getting on the GSA schedule shows government buyers that Raisbeck Engineering and our products have been thoroughly vetted by the government. So, any state or federal agency can, with confidence and ease, purchase Raisbeck’s existing performance improvement modifications or engineering services to address new or emerging requirements.”

Founded in 1949, GSA manages more than one-fourth of the government’s total procurement dollars and continuously accounts for approximately $44 billion of Government spending. GSA provides a centralized delivery system of products with predetermined terms and conditions such as pricing, delivery times, and warranties and serves to leverage its buying power to obtain the best value for taxpayers.

Don Graves Joins Raisbeck as Chief Financial Officer

Raisbeck Engineering, a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business, commercial and military aircraft, today announced the appointment of Don Graves as Chief Financial Officer.

Graves is a seasoned leader who brings over 25 years of finance, corporate strategy, accounting, and operational expertise at the executive and board level. He comes to Raisbeck from Korry Electronics, where he was a key business leader responsible for overseeing the company’s financial functions, including financial reporting, analysis, and forecasting, a role in which he positioned Korry for financial growth and efficiency. In addition, Graves supervised the company’s accounting and IT departments.

“Don is an excellent addition to our team and brings with him extensive financial, operational, and strategic experience with a proven track record of success,” said Hal Chrisman, President of Raisbeck. “This, combined with his experience in and financial knowledge of the Aviation Industry will be a huge asset as we move the company forward in advancing our strategic growth initiatives.”

In his new role, Graves will lead Raisbeck’s financial activities including, accounting, financial planning, and analysis, financial reporting, cost control, insurance, and internal audit. Additionally, he will oversee the company’s ERP implementation, and interface with parent company Acorn Growth Companies and its investors.

“I am excited to step into the CFO role at Raisbeck and assist the company as it continues to grow,” said Graves. “Raisbeck has a strong foundation with excellent growth opportunities, and I look forward to working with Hal and the rest of the team to help drive the Company into its next phase.”

Prior to joining Korry Electronics, Graves served as Director of Business Management at Blue Origin, where he was responsible for managing all financial planning and analysis, developing Strategic Plans, Forecasting, and Costing Models for the Business Units. He also served as VP Finance at Top Aces and CFO of the Advanced Composites and Engineered Materials Division at Zodiac Aerospace. Graves holds a master’s degree in business administration from Portland State University and a bachelor’s degree in business and administrative studies from Lewis & Clark College.

Intercontinental Jet Service Joins Raisbeck Dealer Network

Intercontinental Jet Service Corp. headquarters in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Seattle, Wash. – November 11, 2020 – Raisbeck Engineering Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of Intercontinental Jet Service Corp. (IJSC) to its global network of Authorized Dealers. With this appointment, IJSC brings its extensive range of MRO services and expertise to the Beechcraft King Air market for which Raisbeck offers time-proven performance, safety and comfort enhancement systems.

Intercontinental Jet Service is an FAA Part 145 repair facility based in Oklahoma at Tulsa International Airport (TUL) where it provides major inspections, heavy structural repairs, propeller overhauls and avionic upgrades for many aircraft makes and models including Mitsubishi, Cessna and Piaggio. IJSC is one of the largest Honeywell Authorized TPE331 Engine Major Service Centers and has been a factory owned and Authorized Mitsubishi Service Center since 2016.

“We’re excited to be working with the team at Intercontinental Jet Service and view this new partnership as a win-win situation,” said Hal Chrisman, President of Raisbeck Engineering. “Intercontinental Jet Service has the expertise and facilities necessary to provide the high-quality sales, installation and maintenance services we expect of our Authorized Dealers. In turn, Raisbeck is able to expand its presence in the markets IJSC already serves.”

Mark James, President of Intercontinental Jet Service, commented: “Becoming a Raisbeck Authorized Dealer enables us to meet the demands of discerning King Air operators looking to improve the efficiency of their aircraft. This agreement represents another significant step in our 30-plus year history of expanding our support of the turboprop market.”

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About Intercontinental Jet Service Corp.

A wholly owned subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries of America, and holder of numerous FAA authorizations, IJSC currently offers over 56,000 square feet of hangar, back-shop and office space dedicated to turboprop and jet maintenance, avionics, and propeller overhauls and repairs. The company is airframe factory authorized by Mitsubishi MU-2, Cessna Caravan and Piaggio Avanti among others, and maintains representive agreements with Collins, Garmin, and Texas Turbine Conversions in addition to Raisbeck Engineering. Please visit www.ijetservice.com as well as their Facebook page.

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, an Acorn Growth Aerospace and Defense company, is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business, commercial and military aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck’s aerodynamically-designed enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit www.raisbeck.com. Stay connected with Raisbeck online through our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

Contact:  Michelle Lieuallen
michelle@raisbeck.com
(206) 723-2000

Acorn Growth Companies Names Hal Chrisman President of Raisbeck Engineering, Inc.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla., July 8, 2020 — Acorn Growth Companies, a private equity firm investing exclusively in aerospace, defense and intelligence, today announced the appointment of Hal Chrisman as president of its portfolio business, Raisbeck Engineering, Inc. headquartered in Seattle, Washington. 

 “I am very pleased that an individual of Hal’s caliber and talent will be leading Raisbeck through this unprecedented moment in history and into the company’s next phase of innovation and growth,” said Rick Nagel, managing partner of Acorn Growth Companies. “His leadership, experience, fresh insights and extensive knowledge in aerospace and defense will prove to be a tremendous asset to Raisbeck in positioning the company to achieve its long-term strategic goals and expansion into new aircraft markets.” 

A seasoned aviation, aerospace and defense professional with over 34 years of experience in the industry, Chrisman has split his time between consulting and executive level industry positions which span all major market segments including business aviation, commercial air transport, defense, and rotary wing. Most recently, Chrisman was Chief Strategy Officer with Acorn Growth Companies. 

 “It’s a pleasure to join the Raisbeck team and I look forward to leading this great group of experienced professionals,” said Chrisman. “Raisbeck is known for delivering the highest quality of innovative performance enhancements for business and commercial aircraft that enrich our customers’ flight experience. Together we will continue to build on that legacy by delivering the very best in technology advancements.” 

Prior to joining Acorn, Chrisman served in several leadership roles within Aerospace and Defense Consulting and MRO companies, including ICF’s Aerospace & MRO practice, AeroStrategy and Pemco Aviation Group.  He started his career as a project engineer with Williams International, a leading gas turbine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), working the cruise missile engine program and leading the development of the Sub-system Power Unit for the Comanche Helicopter. 

Chrisman holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hanover College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from Texas A&M University along with an MBA from the University of Michigan.

About Raisbeck Engineering, Inc.

Raisbeck Engineering, Inc. an Acorn Growth Aerospace and Defense company, is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck’s aerodynamically designed enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort.  For more information about Raisbeck Engineering’s list of products, please visit www.raisbeck.com.  Stay connected with Raisbeck online through Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

About Acorn Growth Companies

Acorn Growth Companies is a middle market private equity firm focused exclusively on Aerospace, Defense and Intelligence. Acorn invests solely in operating companies that strive to enhance global mobility and protect national interests. Acorn has a formidable reputation in the industry and is recognized for its deep understanding of the Aerospace & Defense markets, with proprietary access to the best companies within these sectors. With operational expertise and its ability to lead and manage investments through variable economic and industry cycles, Acorn works in tandem with management to build its portfolio companies into significant market leaders. AcornGrowthCompanies.com

Raisbeck Unveils New Composite 5-Blade Swept Propeller for the King Air 200 Series

October 21, 2019 – Las Vegas, Nev. – Raisbeck Engineering, Inc., a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business and commercial aircraft, is proud to announce a new Composite 5-Blade Swept Propeller for Beechcraft King Air 200 series aircraft. Manufactured by Hartzell Propeller specifically for King Air 200, B200, and B200GT aircraft, and STC’d by Raisbeck Engineering, the Composite 5-Blade Swept Propeller will make its official debut at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas at the Raisbeck booth.

Noticeably quieter with a 30% noise reduction throughout the aircraft and constructed of structural carbon fiber composite with nickel cobalt leading edges to protect against foreign object damage, the Composite 5-Blade Swept Propellers optimize airfoil efficiency allowing for a larger 96-inch diameter propeller with less blade tip noise. This next generation of propellers offers King Air operators an average of 48 pounds total weight savings versus OEM installed propellers, 16.5% performance in runway acceleration, 48% better in prop reverse and 25.8% better in engine-out climb scenarios with flaps up. The propeller also features unlimited blade life, thereby lowering maintenance and overhaul costs.

With over 30 years of experience in the design, manufacturing, and certification of structural composite propellers, Hartzell and Raisbeck have a long-standing relationship in developing swept blade technology for the entire King Air line. Hartzell’s recent Type Certification (TC) validation for the Composite 5-Blade Swept Propeller paves the way for Raisbeck to acquire Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and begin deliveries in November.

“Raisbeck’s singular focus has always been about performance and added value for aircraft owners,” said company President, Lynn Thomas. “We’re excited to be working with Hartzell to expand our offerings of propellers for the King Air 200 aircraft.”

Raisbeck also offers King Air 200 aircraft owners and operators the option of an Aluminum 4-Blade Swept Propeller, also aerodynamically designed to provide more thrust with less noise. Raisbeck is now taking orders for the Composite 5-Blade Swept Propeller. Contact Raisbeck or a Raisbeck Authorized Dealer for more information and pricing.

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About Hartzell Propeller Inc.
Hartzell Propeller utilizes the strength of lightweight structural composites and robotic manufacturing technologies to optimize propeller performance in all flight phases.

Hartzell Propeller is the global leader in advanced technology aircraft propeller design and manufacturing for business, commercial and government customers. The company designs next- generation propellers with innovative “blended airfoil” technology and manufactures them with revolutionary machining centers, robotics and custom resin transfer molding curing stations. 
 
Hartzell Propeller and its sister company, Hartzell Engine Technologies LLC, form the general aviation business unit of Tailwind Technologies Inc. For more info on Hartzell Propeller, go to www.hartzellprop.com.

About Raisbeck Engineering, Inc.
Raisbeck Engineering, an Acorn Growth Aerospace and Defense company, is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck’s aerodynamically-designed enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit www.raisbeck.com. Stay connected with Raisbeck online through our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

Baker Aviation Named as Authorized Dealer for Raisbeck Engineering

May 6, 2019 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering, Inc., a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business and commercial aircraft, is pleased to announce the appointment of Baker Aviation in Fort Worth, Texas, to its global network of Authorized Dealers. 

Established in 2008 exclusively as a private jet services company to provide a broad scope of customized aviation services, Baker Aviation has diversified their maintenance platforms and product offerings over the years and today serves as a full-service aircraft maintenance, management and charter company. 

“As our King Air business continues to grow here in Fort Worth, we believe this new dealership is the right direction for our company,” stated Stan Baker, III, Baker Aviation President.  “We look forward to offering more performance enhancing options to our King Air clients and I am confident that this is the beginning of a long and productive relationship with Raisbeck.”

Ray Goyco, Jr., President and Chief Operating Officer for Baker Aviation Maintenance, added, “Raisbeck has always been on the cutting edge of King Air performance systems and we are excited about this new dealership.  I have great respect and admiration for Bill Cadow, Director of Sales for Raisbeck, as we have worked together on many projects and it has always been a positive and mutually rewarding experience.”

Located in Fort Worth, Texas, Baker Aviation immediate plans include centralizing and expanding operations with the development of two new state-of-the-art hangars currently under construction to house their FAA Part 145 repair station and Part 135 charter and aircraft maintenance business.

“We are thrilled Baker Aviation has joined our worldwide team of Authorized Dealers,” said Lynn Thomas, President for Raisbeck Engineering.  “Appointing a highly experienced maintenance facility such as Baker Aviation helps us continue to support our valued customers in providing performance enhancement solutions for the King Air family.”

About Baker Aviation

Baker Aviation is a full-service aircraft maintenance, management, and charter company, licensed to provide professional aviation services worldwide.  ARG/US Platinum-Rated and IS-BAO registered, Baker Aviation is headquartered at Meacham International Airport in Fort Worth, Texas.  FAA Part 145 maintenance services are also provided at KFTW with expertise in airframe maintenance for Hawker, King Air, Beechcraft, Citation, Learjet, Falcon, Challenger and Gulfstream aircraft.  Baker is a dealer for BLR Aerospace King Air performance upgrades, a stocking distributor of PMA Parts from Omega Aircraft Articles, and a dealer for LED Lighting with Aircraft Lighting International.  Baker Aviation is also the exclusive master distributor of the HOT-STOP® ‘L’ Fire Containment product line.  To learn more or to schedule service, please visit baker-aviation.com or call 972-248-0457.

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, an Acorn Growth Aerospace and Defense company, is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft.  Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck’s aerodynamically-designed enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort.  For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit www.raisbeck.com.  Stay connected with Raisbeck online through our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

Raisbeck Engineering Expands Dealer Network in Texas

Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering, Inc. (“REI”) and Aerospace Instrument Support, Inc. (“AIS”) are pleased to announce Aerospace Instrument Support has joined Raisbeck’s global network of Authorized Dealers. Located at the Denton Airport in Denton, Texas, Aerospace Instrument Support specializes in providing aircraft maintenance and avionics installation/support as well as major aircraft modifications for Business Class aircraft.

Established in 1995 exclusively as an instrument repair facility, AIS has expanded to offer full avionics and airframe services while maintaining their proven combination of friendly and honest attitude with one of the best turnaround times in the industry. Aerospace Instrument Support’s A&Ps and IAs have years of experience in maintaining aircraft of all variation with extensive factory rated schooling in King Air, Pilatus, Cessna, Embraer, Caravan and Piaggio.

“We are very pleased to add AIS to our global network of dealers,” said Raisbeck President Lynn Thomas. “It is a perfect fit as Customer Support has been a primary focus for our company. Appointing Aerospace Instrument Support with their combined 85+ years of experience in maintaining aircraft along with their excellent customer support was a natural partnership for us.”

AIS recently completed modifications of 10 factory new King Air 250’s equipped with REI systems. “These mods were done in rapid succession and allowed us to perfect our process and deliver an excellent product with as minimal downtime as possible,” said Andy Johnson, AIS President. “Raisbeck’s support and commitment to quality during this project was unmatched and we are proud to be offering their product lines to our current and future customers.”

About Aerospace Instrument Support

Aerospace Instrument Support was founded in 1995 initially as an instrument repair facility. Today with over 85+ combined years of technician experience, we’ve expanded our capabilities which includes airframe inspections, structural repairs, engine repairs and overhauls, and paint and interior repair. We are fully-devoted to providing the best customer support and take pride in meeting our customers’ needs. For more information about Aerospace Instrument Support, contact Adam Johnson at (940) 566-8079 or on the web at www.ais-inst.com.

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, an Acorn Growth Aerospace and Defense company, is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft.  Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck’s aerodynamically-designed enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort.  For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit www.raisbeck.com.  Stay connected with Raisbeck online through our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

Contact: Michelle Lieuallen, michelle@raisbeck.com

Raisbeck Engineering, Inc. (206) 723-2000

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Acorn Growth Companies Names President of Raisbeck Engineering Inc.

SEATTLE – Acorn Growth Companies, a private equity firm investing exclusively in Aerospace, Defense and Intelligence, announced Lynn Thomas as the new president of its portfolio business, Raisbeck Engineering Inc. headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

“Since Lynn joined Raisbeck Engineering in the spring of last year as our VP of Sales and Marketing, he has transformed our sales organization achieving consistent growth,” said Rick Nagel, managing partner of Acorn Growth Companies. “I am delighted to promote Lynn to the role of president. As a pilot, his passion for the business and 35 years of business experience will have a continued, positive impact on the growth and profitability of Raisbeck Engineering.”

Thomas is an experienced executive with an extensive background in all disciplines of business management, including strategies for increased growth and profitability, market positioning and effective financial planning.

Most recently he served as the vice president of sales and marketing at Raisbeck. Throughout his career he has served in several leadership roles within general aviation companies, including Banyan Air Service, Quest Aircraft and Aviat Aircraft. Earlier in his career he served as an investment advisor with Everen Securities and Paine Weber.

Thomas holds a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Northern Colorado. He currently holds a commercial pilot and instrument rating for land and sea – soloing for the first time at age 16.

Founded in 1982 Raisbeck Engineering develops, markets and manufactures worldwide-certified performance improvement systems for some of the most prolific commercial and general aviation aircraft models in the market today.

“It is a true honor to lead the most talented team of men and women in the aviation industry,” Thomas said. “The opportunity to build on the legacy that James Raisbeck began and maintain our position as the innovative leader in aviation performance and comfort solutions for business and commercial aircraft is truly the highlight of my career.”

Raisbeck Engineering Inc., an Acorn Growth Company, is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck Engineering’s aerodynamically designed enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. Raisbeck.com

Acorn Growth Companies is a middle market private equity firm focused exclusively on Aerospace, Defense and Intelligence. Acorn invests solely in operating companies that strive to enhance global mobility and protect national interests. Acorn has a formidable reputation in the industry and is recognized for its deep understanding of the Aerospace & Defense markets, with proprietary access to the best companies within these sectors. With operational expertise and its ability to lead and manage investments through variable economic and industry cycles, Acorn works in tandem with management to build its portfolio companies into significant market leaders. AcornGrowthCompanies.com

Media Contact:
Kath Searle, Acorn
682.888.4466

Investor Contact:
Brandon Bradford, Acorn
917.224.8399

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