Raisbeck Engineering

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Raisbeck Engineering Acquires Butterfield Industries

December 12, 2017 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering Inc. (“REI”), a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business and commercial aircraft, announced today it has successfully completed the acquisition of Butterfield Industries (“BI”). The acquisition will enable REI customers to take advantage of a broader offering of products and systems in the general aviation market.

“We are thrilled to welcome Butterfield products into the Raisbeck family and are working aggressively to fully integrate BI products and STCs under one platform for our dealers and customers as soon as possible,” said Tony Armstrong, CEO at Raisbeck Engineering. “This acquisition is in line with our company’s overall business model and consistent with our strategy of growth by developing new market segments.”

The acquisition further broadens REI’s capabilities to provide quality engineered products to the Beechcraft King Air family.

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering Inc., an AGC 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, REI’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

About Butterfield Industries

Butterfield Industries, headquartered in Meridian, ID, has proudly produced quality airplane parts for installation on King Air Models for over 30 years.

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Raisbeck Engineering to Acquire Butterfield Industries

Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering Inc. (“REI”), a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business and commercial aircraft, announced its decision to sign a definitive acquisition agreement with Butterfield Industries (“BI”) for all of its products and STCs. The deal is anticipated to close on or before October 31, 2017.

Butterfield Industries produces FAA approved replacement parts for numerous King Air models. Key products include: PMA Direct Replacement Floorboards, Fuel Point Pans, Oil Residue Collection Systems, Air/Oil Separator Systems and Flow-Through Anti-Ice Kits.

“BI’s products are a natural fit with Raisbeck’s King Air offerings,” stated James Raisbeck, Founder and Chairman of Raisbeck Engineering. “Wayne Butterfield, the founder of Butterfield Industries and principal inventor of its systems, has been a corporate partner and friend dating back to 1982. Many of the aircraft that carry Raisbeck modifications also carry Butterfield systems.”

“We have found the right partner in REI,” commented Wayne Butterfield, Founder and CEO of Butterfield Industries. “REI’s established dealer distribution network will enable our products to reach a larger customer base.”

“We are pleased at the synergies between the businesses, creating an environment for strategic growth as BI products are integrated into REI product and system offerings,” remarked Rick Nagel, Managing Partner of Acorn Growth Companies, the owner and managing partner of Raisbeck.

Terms of the transaction are not announced.

Butterfield Industries, headquartered in Meridian, ID, has proudly produced quality airplane parts for installation on King Air Models for over 30 years. Butterfieldindustries.com

Raisbeck Engineering, Inc., an AGC 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, REI’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 A&D. Acorn invests solely in operating companies that strive to enhance global mobility and national security. Acorn has a strong reputation in the industry and is recognized for its deep understanding of the A&D 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

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Raisbeck Receives STC Approval for Composite Five-Blade Swept Prop

September 14, 2017 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering, a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business and commercial aircraft, is proud to announce the company has received Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval from the FAA for its new Composite five-blade Swept Propeller for the Beechcraft King Air 350.

The composite five-blade swept propeller, designed to improve King Air comfort, performance and efficiency, was developed in collaboration with Hartzell Propeller. A 106-inches in diameter, Raisbeck’s composite five-blade swept propeller reduces weight and contributes to improved short field and climb performance, while providing strength and durability expected from modern composites. The new composite propellers have an extended 3,000-hour, three-year warranty and unlimited blade life.

“This is a significant milestone in our journey to market entry for a composite five-blade swept propeller,” said company CEO and Chief Financial Officer, Tony Armstrong. “We couldn’t be happier and our new propeller will further enhance the King Air 350 performance. We believe King Air operators will truly enjoy flying with these new propellers.”

The company received FAA Parts Manufacturing Approval (PMA) following STC approval and propellers are available for immediate delivery.

Raisbeck’s aerodynamic blade design which optimizes airfoil efficiency combined with carbon fiber structural design, maximizes thrust therefore increasing performance while reducing noise for the aircraft. The composite five-blade swept propeller provides a total weight savings of 47 pounds compared to the current OEM propeller for the King Air 350.

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About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, headquartered in Seattle, Wash., is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck’s aerodynamicallydesigned enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit Raisbeck.com. Stay connected with Raisbeck online through our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

Straight Flight Joins Raisbeck Engineering’s Network of Dealers

September 6, 2017 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering is pleased to announce it has named Straight Flight, a subsidiary of Sierra Nevada Corporation, as an authorized Raisbeck dealer in a move to strengthen and provide added value to Beechcraft King Air owners and operators.

Founded in 1986 and acquired by Sierra Nevada Corporation in February 2007, Straight Flight specializes in heavy structural repair, inspections, modifications, paint, composite repair and fabrication as among some of the services the company provides worldwide. Located in Englewood, Colorado at Centennial Airport, Straight Flight has spent nearly 30 years in the aviation industry with a “can do” attitude performing major repairs and modifications on all types of general aviation, corporate and military aircraft. They are the only authorized service center for the Dornier 328 aircraft.

“As we continue to expand our dealer network with leading, well-respected partners, Straight Flight has the in-depth knowledge, attention to customer service and technical expertise that make them an ideal strategic partner for us,” said Lynn Thomas, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Raisbeck Engineering. “We are thrilled Straight Flight has joined our global team of authorized dealers as this partnership is a natural fit for us having already had a long term working relationship with Sierra Nevada.”

“I’m excited to add the superior product line of aircraft upgrades from Raisbeck Engineering to our customers,” noted Ernest Smith, General Manager at Straight Flight. “As one of the limited Raisbeck authorized installation centers, we are proud to be a part of this team. Straight Flight’s superior quality in all aspects of aviation maintenance and modification work will assure Raisbeck’s STC installations perform at the peak of their engineered designs.”

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About Straight Flight

Straight Flight was founded in 1986 and acquired by Sierra Nevada Corporation in 2007. Its approximately 30 highly trained and experienced technicians are dedicated in providing quality service while consistently delivering on promises made. The company specializes in performing major structural repairs and custom modifications – whether installing or designing. For more information about Straight Flight, contact Jennifer Stoffels at (720) 788-3841 or on the web at StraightFlight.com.

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, headquartered in Seattle, Wash., is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck’s aerodynamicallydesigned enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit Raisbeck.com. Stay connected with Raisbeck online through our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

Raisbeck Engineering Names David Sylvester Director of Sales

September 1, 2017 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering is pleased to announce David Sylvester has joined the company as Director of Sales. Sylvester will be responsible for overseeing sales initiatives, dealer sales support, and contributing to product and dealer selections for Raisbeck’s worldwide dealer network. His appointment marks Raisbeck’s commitment towards positioning the company for additional growth potential as well as enhancing its existing sales division.

With more than 28 years of general aviation experience in maintenance, quality control and sales, David has extensive experience in working with foreign authorities on certification approvals, performing aircraft inspections, maintenance and product support. His recent aviation experience included work at Banyan Air Service where for the past 10 years he successfully served as Quality Assurance Inspector. More recently, Sylvester worked in Maintenance Sales where he oversaw business development and provided service and support to a client base of business aviation operators, pilots and owners.

“David brings a wealth of experience, energy and passion to his new role as Director of Sales and will be a tremendous asset to our team as we grow our business,” said Lynn Thomas, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Raisbeck Engineering. “Our customers and dealers will enjoy Dave’s infectious enthusiasm for aviation.”

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About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, headquartered in Seattle, Wash., is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck’s aerodynamicallydesigned enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit Raisbeck.com. Stay connected with Raisbeck online through our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

Raisbeck Engineering Expands Dealer Network with Addition of Yingling Aviation

August 7, 2017 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering today announced Yingling Aviation has joined Raisbeck’s global network of Authorized Dealers. Yingling was established in 1946 and specializes in a broad range of piston and turboprop aircraft including the Beechcraft King Air.

“We are excited to have an organization with their level of expertise join our dealer network,” said Lynn Thomas, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Raisbeck Engineering. “Yingling’s established team of aviation professionals combined with long history in general aviation make them an ideal partner for us. Being well-known as a full-service fixed base operation providing 24-hour line service as well as aircraft maintenance, repairs and modifications adds significantly to the Raisbeck Engineering organization.”

Yingling’s long history in general aviation began with its association with Cessna in 1946 as the first official Cessna dealer. As the company’s business expands and continues to grow into the King Air market, Raisbeck and Yingling Aviation share a common goal in assisting King Air owners and operators with product enhancements to improve overall performance and operational flexibility.

“Partnering with Raisbeck Engineering adds a feature-rich product line to our growing list of King Air services,” said Jerry Pickett, Vice President of Aircraft and MRO sales at Yingling. “We’re extremely proud to become a Raisbeck dealer.”

About Yingling Aviation

Yingling Aviation was founded in 1946 and was named the first Cessna dealer that same year. Its approximately 100 Wichita based employees are dedicated to serving customers. A full general aviation services provider at Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) in Wichita, Kansas, Yingling is a Beechcraft, Cessna and McCauley Propeller Authorized Service Center servicing a broad spectrum of piston, turbine and jet aircraft. It has long been the largest independent Cessna parts supplier in the world, as well. It provides comprehensive support to new and legacy Textron aircraft, offering the experience and expertise of top-notch FlightSafety trained technicians, proximity to the both Cessna and Beech factories, and familiarity with local vendors. Providing avionics, interiors, propeller, aircraft sales, and management services, Yingling Aviation can be reached by calling Jerry Pickett at (316) 943-3246 or on the web at www.yinglingaviation.com.

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, headquartered in Seattle, WA, is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck’s aerodynamicallydesigned enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit Raisbeck.com. Stay connected with Raisbeck online through our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

Raisbeck Engineering Unveils New Composite 5-Blade Swept Propeller

July 24, 2017 – Oshkosh, Wis. – Raisbeck Engineering is pleased to announce the launch of its new Composite 5-blade Swept Propeller for the King Air 350 in collaboration with Hartzell Propeller. Utilizing Swept Blade technology as an integral part of its design, Raisbeck Engineering and Hartzell Propeller have teamed to develop and certify an advanced Structural Composite 5-blade Swept Propeller made of carbon fiber. Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval is expected soon, with production by Hartzell immediately following.

Designed to improve passenger comfort and performance, the aerodynamic blade design combined with advanced structural design, maximizes thrust therefore increasing performance while reducing noise for the King Air 350. “We’re very excited about this new composite propeller and what it offers customers in terms of performance and efficiency,” said Lynn Thomas, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “We’ve teamed with Hartzell because of their years of experience and quality of manufacturing and standards. Raisbeck has had a long-term relationship with Hartzell and we are proud to work with them on this project.”

“By taking advantage of the aerodynamic effect of blade sweep, the strength of lightweight structural composites and robotic manufacturing technologies, Raisbeck and Hartzell have greatly improved performance across the board in all flight phases,” said Hartzell Propeller Executive Vice President JJ Frigge. Hartzell’s new five-blade swept propellers replace the standard Hartzell four-blade aluminum blade propellers. Raisbeck’s Swept Blade technology optimizes airfoil efficiency allowing for a larger diameter propeller with less blade tip noise and a comfortable cabin environment. Other benefits include unlimited blade life, reduced maintenance costs with 6 years/4,000 hours TBO, 3 years/3,000 hour Warranty, increased takeoff acceleration and better landing deceleration and accel-stop. The Composite 5-blade Swept Propeller provides a total weight savings of 47 pounds compared to the current OEM propeller for the King Air 350. An equipped King Air 350 with the new propellers will be on display at EAA AirVenture, Hartzell Booth #296-297.

About Hartzell Propeller

Celebrating its 100th year, Hartzell Propeller is the global leader in advanced technology aircraft propeller design and manufacturing for business, commercial and government customers. In business for more than a century, 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. With ASC-II™ composite technology, Hartzell delivers optimal performance, strength, and durability with carbon fiber blades. 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 hartzellprop.com.

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, headquartered in Seattle, WA, is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck’s aerodynamicallydesigned enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit Raisbeck.com. Stay connected with Raisbeck online through our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

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Raisbeck Engineering Receives Final STC Approval in Argentina

June 14, 2017 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering is pleased to announce that it has received Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for its Swept Blade Propellers for the King Air B300 series from the Administración Nacional de Aviación Civil (ANAC).

“Today’s announcement completes the final STC approval for all Raisbeck Systems in Argentina for the B300 King Air model,” said Bill Lally, Vice President of Customer Support. “Our goal to certify Raisbeck Performance Systems in every corner of the globe has moved one step closer with this approval as we continue to work closely with Beechcraft/ Textron Aviation and our customers to meet their needs.”

Raisbeck’s Swept Blade Propellers for the King Air B300 first received FAA certification in February 2016. Currently approved in 37 countries including Canada, Europe, Brazil, Mexico and Australia, Raisbeck’s Swept Blade Propellers with aluminum construction and advanced swept blade design, offers improved takeoff acceleration, better time to climb, faster cruise and improved landing deceleration. Raisbeck’s Swept design also offers more measurable quietness in the cockpit and cabin.

“Focusing on our goal to expand our presence internationally, we continue to add Supplemental Type Certificates with our most recent expansion into Asia,” Lally added. “STC approvals for our Swept Blade Propellers, Nacelle Wing Locker System and Dual Aft Body Strakes for the King Air 90 series are in review by the CAAC in China.”

Raisbeck Engineering is a recognized leader in the aviation industry for aircraft modifications. Dedicated to the improvement of performance in business and commercial aircraft, Raisbeck’s aerodynamic designed enhancements achieve 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.

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