In 2021, Merlin Lite lit up cyberspace after I wrote about the new entry’s introduction at Midwest LSA Expo in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. So many tens of thousands of you wanted to read about this intriguing aircraft that I worried the website could crash. A few other airplanes have drawn large numbers of readers but Chip Erwin creations seem to do that with regularity. Most companies I write about struggle to come up with something new each year when we greet each other at airshows. Contrarily, Chip is so bubbling with new ideas and excitement about them that he can barely talk fast enough to get all the words out of his mind. He’s always an exciting interview and a new video below offers another. Why a… Ultralight-Motorglider-Floatplane? Following is what Chip has to say about his new creation. This is not identical to what’s in the video, so you want to read the following plus catch the video to learn more.
It’s What!? “It’s an …Ultralight Motorglider Floatplane,” and Many Can Afford It
When the prototype Merlin Lite showed at Midwest LSA Expo 2021, tens of thousands of readers quickly devoured info on this Part 103 entry. It was our most-followed airplane of the year.
Why a… Ultralight-Motorglider-Floatplane?
Following is what Chip has to say about his new creation. This is not identical to what's in the video, so you want to read the following plus catch the video to learn more. Then, go to his website Aeromarine-LSA.com where you can read Chip's cleverly-phrased blog, see many pictures and drawings, plus find more information about his products.Merlin Lite with the motorglider option exhibits long, slender wings and features highly-effective Fowler flaps. Both can aid floatplane operation.
Chip has a long and illustrious background in float building and flying. Readers should enjoy his fascinating blog about his float history.
How Affordable?
With its special attributes — from qualifying as a Part 103 Ultralight, and therefore, needing no medical certificate, or even a pilot license for that matter …to a floatplane, one that still qualifies as a Part 103 …and as a motorglider with long, slender wings that offer a great glide and slow water operations (easier on the airframe) — you should not expect this is the lowest-cost Part 103 ultralight you could buy. Nonetheless, I consider Merlin Lite floatplane motorglider to be quite a value. Let's sum it up.ARTICLE LINKS:
- Aeromarine-LSA.com, all contact info and content on this website
- Float pricing and entertaining blog, on manufacturer's website
For a video about the land version of Merlin Lite, see the very top of ByDanJohnson.com.