… for Robinson Helicopter Sky-Tec Starters
Formed in 2010 by Tailwind Technologies from assets of Kelly Aerospace Energy System, Hartzell Engine Technologies has evolved into a leading OEM supplier and aerospace technology concern. On 30 January 2023, the company announced it had received FAA Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) for its Sky-Tec HT (High Torque) starters for Robinson two-place R22 and four-place R44 light utility helicopters.
Hartzell Engine Tech’s Sky-Tec HT starter for Lycoming engines features an integrated self-resetting Kickback Protection System (KPS) which protects Robinson helicopter powerplants and starter from engine kickback.
Hartzell Engine Tech President Keith Bagley remarked: “Hartzell Engine Tech’s durable Sky-Tec HT starters with their Kickback Protection System are in full production and available today through the company’s distribution system. They replace our older starters installed by Robinson helicopters at the factory and also older competitor starter units. The Sky-Tec brand, which we acquired in 2016, continues to reflect the highest levels of quality, innovation and value.”
Robinson helicopter operators are invited to visit https://skytec.aero/product/lycoming-aircraft-starters/ for purpose of determining if their model is covered under the new PMA.
Since its 1973 founding, the Robinson Helicopter Company has produced over 12,000 two, four, and five-place, reciprocating and turbine-engine helicopters for private, commercial, government, police, and military customers. Robinson’s Torrance, California manufacturing facility produces up to 32 helicopters every month, with weekly production consisting of approximately one R22 two-place, reciprocating-engine helicopter; four to five R44 four-place, reciprocating-engine helicopters; and one to two R66 five-place, turbine-engine helicopters. To maintain a predictable output of R66s, Robinson has entered into a ten-year contract with Rolls-Royce for the delivery of one-hundred RR300 turbine engines yearly. At full-capacity, the Robinson factory is capable of turning out up to one-thousand helicopters per year.
For its own part, Hartzell Engine Tech produces myriad components and subassemblies that satisfy the stringent requirements of contemporary aircraft systems. By dint of precise engineering, manufacturing, inspection, and certification, Hartzell Engine Tech guarantees the quality and reliability of its products.
Hartzell Engine Tech’s product portfolio comprises Janitrol Aero, Fuelcraft, Plane-Power, Sky-Tec and AeroForce Turbocharger Systems. Collectively, these brands supply the general aviation industry with engine accessories and heating solutions.
Hartzell Aviation is committed to innovation and the continuous betterment of General Aviation products and services. The organization’s storied marques—Hartzell Propeller, Hartzell Aerospace Welding, and Hartzell Engine Tech—are guided by the overriding principle Built on Honor, the selfsame ethos on which Robert N. Hartzell founded the Hartzell Walnut Propeller Company in 1917.
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