Continental Celebrates 120 Years of Powering Legacies Forward

Garth Calitz
Apr 30
2 min read

Continental Aerospace Technologies™ celebrates a historical milestone as the company marks its 120th anniversary. Founded in 1905 in Muskegon, Michigan, Continental has consistently delivered high-performing engines. While honouring its rich legacy, the company continues to drive aviation forward through cutting-edge innovation, advanced tools, and sustainable technologies.

From its pioneering role in early aviation to becoming a leading provider of AvGas and Jet-A piston engines, Continental continues to set industry standards and provide new offerings. In addition to celebrating 120 years, the company also proudly celebrates reaching 12 million Jet-A flight hours, the launch of a new website, and enhanced factory training programs and tools, reinforcing our ongoing dedication to excellence and innovation in the aviation industry. With over a century of proven success, Continental is honoured to introduce new advanced solutions to support pilots, owners, and mechanics in their portion of the flying journey.

Continental Aerospace Technologies has a long history in aircraft engine manufacturing, dating back to 1905 when the company was founded as Continental Motors in Muskegon, Michigan. While initially focused on automobile engines, they expanded into aircraft engines in the 1920s, with their first aircraft engine, the A-70, being introduced in 1929. They have since become a prominent player in the general aviation market, powering a wide variety of aircraft.

Here's a more detailed look at their history:

Early Years (1905-1929):
Continental Motors was founded in Muskegon, Michigan, and initially focused on automobile engines.
Entry into Aviation (1929):
The company formed Continental Aircraft Engine Company as a subsidiary and released their first aircraft engine, the A-70, a seven-cylinder radial.
The A-40 and A-50 (1930s):
Introduced the A-40 and later the A-50, which powered aircraft like the Taylor Cub and Piper Cub.
World War II and Beyond:
Continental supplied engines for tanks, formed Continental Aviation and Engineering (CAE) for larger engines, and played a crucial role in wartime production.
Post-War Growth:
The company continued to develop and produce engines, including the O-300, which was widely used in light aircraft.
Technological Advancements:
Continental brought turbocharging and fuel injection to general aviation in the 1960s.
Global Presence:
Continental opened a location in Mobile, Alabama in 1966, which still operates today.
Acquisition by AVIC:
In 2011, Continental Motors was acquired by China's Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).
Continued Manufacturing:
Continental Aerospace Technologies continues to manufacture engines for both certified and experimental aircraft, including the CD series, 200, 360, 470, and 500 series, and the Titan experimental series.

“Reaching our 120th anniversary is a testament to the resilience and drive of Continental and the passion of those who have been part of this journey,” said Karen Hong, President and CEO of Continental Aerospace Technologies. “For us, it’s all about ‘Powering Legacies Forward.’ This reflects our commitment to building upon the foundational work of our past while advancing toward the future. We take great pride in the history we have created and are excited about the advancements on the horizon.”

Continental will commemorate this historical milestone later this year, bringing together past and present team members, valued partners, and the aviation community to honour its rich history and commit to the next era of general aviation.