Woodward Sells Pilot Controls Product Line to Ontic

The deal includes Woodward's portfolio of pilot controls for commercial and defense applications.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 5:05am

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a sleek, metallic throttle quadrant assembly and a pair of polished aluminum rudder pedals arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing the precision engineering and craftsmanship of aviation controls.Woodward's sale of its pilot controls product line to Ontic Engineering and Manufacturing will allow the company to focus on its core aerospace and industrial solutions while Ontic expands its aftermarket parts offerings.Niles Today

Woodward, Inc. has announced an agreement to sell its pilot controls product line and associated services to Ontic Engineering and Manufacturing. The transaction includes Woodward's portfolio of pilot controls for commercial and defense applications, such as throttle quadrant assemblies, rudder pedals, and passive side sticks that are currently manufactured at Woodward's facility in Niles, Illinois. The deal is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Why it matters

This sale allows Woodward to focus on its core business while Ontic, a leading provider of aftermarket aircraft parts and services, can expand its product offerings in the pilot controls market. The long-term supply agreement ensures Woodward will remain a key supplier of engineered components for the pilot controls business.

The details

As part of the transaction, Woodward and Ontic will enter into a long-term supply agreement under which Woodward will remain the sole supplier of certain engineered electromechanical components for pilot controls. In addition, Woodward will provide transition services over a 9-to-12-month period following the transaction close to support continuity of customer delivery.

  • The agreement was announced on April 16, 2026.

The players

Woodward, Inc.

A leading designer, manufacturer, and service provider of energy control and optimization solutions for the aerospace and industrial markets.

Ontic Engineering and Manufacturing

A leading provider of aftermarket aircraft parts and services, including the acquisition and manufacture of legacy aerospace products.

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The takeaway

This transaction allows Woodward to streamline its business and focus on its core competencies, while Ontic can leverage its expertise in the aftermarket aerospace parts industry to expand its product portfolio and serve customers in the pilot controls market.