Merlin
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We’re excited to announce east coast flight operations at Quonset State Airport (OQU) in North Kingston, Rhode Island. Testing in Rhode Island brings our certification efforts closer to our Boston headquarters and marks an important milestone in our journey to revolutionize fixed-wing aviation with autonomous flight technology.
Advancing Certification with Strategic Testing
Our Quonset facility now houses two Cessna Caravans, including our certification-ready Cessna Caravan that serves as the cornerstone of our supplemental type certificate (STC) program. This dedicated test environment allows our team to rigorously validate the Merlin Pilot system’s capabilities while demonstrating our ability to safely meet the demanding requirements for fixed-wing autonomy.
“Merlin is steadily advancing toward our certification and commercialization goals, with flight testing playing a central role as we demonstrate our ability to integrate safety-critical technology across both military and commercial aircraft,” said Matt George, our CEO and founder. “By moving test operations to the east coast, we can carry out this vital work with greater proximity to our headquarters, and also bring top aviation engineering talent to the Northeast region.”
Building on Our Global Footprint
The Rhode Island test center complements our existing operations in Kerikeri, New Zealand, where we continue to conduct advanced technology development and certification work while operating freight services that connect rural communities. This dual-hemisphere approach gives us the flexibility to accelerate development cycles and gather diverse operational experience.
Why Quonset State Airport?
Quonset State Airport provides an ideal environment for our testing operations:
- The location offers convenient access to our Boston headquarters, enabling seamless collaboration between our engineering and flight teams
- The facility is part of a comprehensive transportation hub that combines port, rail, road, and air facilities
- The airport’s existing aviation ecosystem includes Air and Army National Guard operations
- The Northeast region provides access to exceptional aviation engineering talent
We’re proud to join the vibrant aviation community at OQU and contribute to the region’s growing reputation as a hub for transportation innovation. This expansion represents another important step toward our vision of making aviation safer, more accessible, and more efficient through assured autonomous technology.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to advance the Merlin Pilot system toward certification and commercial deployment!