Under new/old ownership, Sullivan Products keeps the iconic Sullivan line of RC model-aircraft equipment in the hands of modelers, making starters, fuel-system gear and control hardware for the flying field. Based in Ocala, the company supports its long-running starter line with replacement parts and backs the Megatron Starter with a two-year limited warranty. Its own description is refreshingly direct: there is no corporate parent or computer phone tree—just modelers serving other modelers.
Magellan Technologies, IncFounded in 1996 to develop embedded hardware and software for medical and automotive applications, Magellan Technologies now operates as Ralph Weaver’s specialty RC-products business. Weaver, an RC pilot since 1986 and an electric-sailplane enthusiast who has competed at the Nats, makes and sells a limited number of specialized onboard instruments, including GPS loggers and altitude equipment that he uses himself. The Indianapolis company’s products are shaped by hands-on experience in RC flight rather than a broad catalog.PHILADELPHIA, PA
Sensenich Propeller CompanyBorn from two brothers’ homemade propeller-driven ice sled, Sensenich Propeller Company has manufactured propellers for aircraft, airboats and UAVs since 1932. Now based entirely in Plant City, Florida, the company combines long-running wood-propeller craftsmanship with aluminum and composite design, engineering and repair capabilities. Sensenich is an FAA Production Certificate holder and FAA Approved Repair Station.LITITZ, PA
U.S. Air Tool Company, LLC (USATCO)Family-owned USATCO traces its roots to Joseph Percz’s 1951 basement operation repairing surplus aircraft tooling. Based in Ronkonkoma, New York, the company now serves aviation professionals worldwide while retaining a specialty in aircraft tooling and support for the homebuilt-aircraft community it has served since the 1970s. USATCO holds ISO 9001:2015 certification.RONKONKOMA, NY
Challenger Aviation Products, IncFrom its family-run shop in Vandalia, Ohio, Challenger Aviation Products makes re-cleanable air and oil filters for small-engine aircraft. The woman-owned company positions its FAA/STC-approved filters as a reusable alternative to disposable aviation filtration, with air filters that can be cleaned up to 25 times or 2,500 hours. Challenger also provides the STC paperwork and replacement elements needed to keep its filters in service.VANDALIA, OH