When thinking of affordable aviation, it’s impossible not to talk about the Aeromarine Merlin LSA. This aircraft is a familiar design for many, as it made its premier in 2016. We’ve talked about it here several times. There have been some exciting changes and updates, a few of which we learned about last month at Sun ’n Fun.
The Aeromarine designed and built 60-hp V-twin liquid cooled four-cycle engine now comes as the standard powerplant. This is a modern engine with electronic ignition, electronic fuel injection and an electric starter. Merlin says this engine will cut fuel consumption at cruise to an average of 2.5 gph, approximately 50% less than the Rotax 582. The Rotax engine is still available as option for those builders that prefer.
The Aeromarine Merlin LSA will also feature as standard a deluxe MGL 8.5-inch EFIS with ADS-B In and Out (FIS-B) avionics panel, elevating your flying experience to the 21st century. Aeromarine designs and builds all of the switches, circuit boards, wiring, and breaker panels; all of which are included in the build.
Even with all the updates and changes, the Aeromarine Merlin is still designed for easy assembly. Aeromarine uses precision-matched holes with their Merlin kit, which means that all aluminum skin parts come pre-drilled, so the builder simply begins pulling rivets. Additionally, you get a complete kit with everything you need to build you dream aircraft! The aircraft is designed as a quick-build kit, allowing customers to assemble it themselves in the least amount of time with the least amount of complexity. The Merlin quick-build kit (E/A-B) has already been inspected and approved by the FAA and posted to the approved kit list showing that it already meets the 51% kit build standard. This should streamline the FAA (or DAR) inspection processes.
Aeromarine also offers a builder’s assistance program that can help customers assemble the aircraft in just one week, even with all the new and exciting solid-state upgrades. This program is a great option for those who want to complete their build quickly while still getting hands-on experience, and with expert guidance and direction during construction, while still enjoying the experience and satisfaction of building their aircraft.
In terms of performance, the Merlin has a cruising speed of up to 104 kts, with a VNE of 130 knots, making it suitable for recreational flying, sightseeing trips, and even short commutes. Even with a full fuel load of 12 gallons (72 pounds), the Merlin can accommodate a reasonable-size pilot of up to 228 pounds with the standard configuration. At 2.5 gph of fuel consumption with the Aeromarine V-Twin engine, this aircraft will likely out-endure your bladder, even at less than maximum fuel load. The Merlin is even equipped with a BRS Parachute recovery system, adding an extra layer of safety and peace of mind for the pilot and their family.
Overall, the Aeromarine Merlin is an excellent choice for pilots seeking an affordable, easy-to-fly, and high-performance LSA. The combination of affordability, ease of operation, and strong performance make it a compelling option for a pilot looking for a modern and affordable aircraft.
The complete Merlin package, including the builder-assistance package, is $55,250.
Please send me information about your two-place airplane!
Aeromarine LSA may see this post but you’d do better reaching out to them directly.
Did I hear somewhere that he is putting out a two seater Merlin sometime soon?
“Soon” is a subjective word, but yes, I reported this earlier (image in article).