Regular readers know I have closely followed the Merlin developments. I use plural because developer Chip Erwin has steadily built this single seat flying machine into a whole fleet of its own. At Sun ‘n Fun we saw a display of three airplanes in different variations. Let’s begin with a focus on the modest cost of Merlin. I promote affordable aviation all day long. That word “affordable” means something different to every single pilot so every time I use the word someone is going to tell me, “It’s still too expensive.” Look I get it. I’m a consumer, too. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a deal? So here’s the short answer: “Finished Price: $34,000.” That’s a direct quote from Aeromarine-LSA. I know some may say that doesn’t work for them but in this day and age, that is a bargain for a ready-to-fly aircraft. When that buys an airplane built like Merlin Lite, one equipped the way Chip has configured it, I consider that one of the great values in aviation.
Magical Merlin Motorglider Goes Both Ways: Part 103 or Motorglider; Gas or Electric
Market Ready?
Chip is a great salesman for his projects, which builds expectations. Pilots waiting to satisfy their interest have had to be patient but now production is drawing close. A partnership with M-Squared is eagerly anticipated by Chip, M-Squared's Paul Mather, and all those interested pilot-customers.An original (and immaculate) European Merlin powered by an HKS 700E, one of several motors Chip used before settling on the Polini for the Part 103 model. Compare this engine cowl to the white aircraft above.
Long slender soaring-style wings are part of the Merlin Lite magic. Like the entire aircraft, wings are all metal.
Merlin Lite sits atop Aeromarine-LSA straight floats. We have another video coming on this product. All Merlin Lites come standard with fitting for floats. ••• Electric power is also coming to Merlin Lite, but that, too, is a subject for another article.