Hartzell Acquires Tanis Aircraft Products

Hartzell Propeller has purchased the assets of Tanis Aircraft Products, a Minnesota-based manufacturer of engine preheat systems for fixed and rotary wing aircraft.

The Tanis brand will become part of Hartzell Propeller's heated products, which now includes systems for propeller de-ice, piston engine reheat, turbine engine preheat, helicopter preheat, battery, avionics, and cabin preheat.

Tanis Aircraft started business in 1974. The company was the first to develop aircraft engine preheat systems for piston engines,

first to offer helicopter preheat, first to offer turbine preheat, and the first to meet rigorous requirements for FAA Supplemental Type Certification.

"The Hartzell family of companies, which is investing heavily in the future of general aviation, is broadening our offerings in heated products with this acquisition," said Hartzell Propeller President JJ Frigge. "We were impressed with Tanis' exceptional quality, laser focus on safety, passion for aviation, and fit with Hartzell."

Frigge added Hartzell will continue to look for opportunities to make direct, long-term investments in value-added manufacturing companies that complement its existing portfolio or leverage core competencies.

Tanis Aircraft Products President and CEO Douglas J. Evink will become Hartzell Propeller vice president of sales for Tanis.

Tanis engineering, sales, and administrative staff will continue to be based near Anoka County-Blaine Airport (Janes Field). Tanis manufacturing operations at Glenwood Municipal Airport will be integrated into Hartzell Propeller's heated products portfolio in Piqua, Ohio.