Merlin, a leading developer of autonomous flight technology for fixed-wing aircraft, has announced the launch of its flight test campaign for a certification-ready Cessna Caravan equipped with the Merlin Pilot. This marks an industry first, showcasing Merlin’s capability to deliver certified advanced automation for aircraft. Once proven, this technology will extend to other aircraft types, including the C-130J and KC-135 in collaboration with the United States Air Force.
“Merlin has evolved from a broad range of experimental models to delivering the industry’s first certification-ready Cessna Caravan,” said Matt George, CEO and founder of Merlin. “What we have on this aircraft is the final certification configuration, not a prototype. It includes comprehensive design data, detailed drawings, custom structures, compliant wiring, and more. This campaign is about validating advanced automation from takeoff to landing, providing a system that pilots can trust to ‘set it and forget it.’ Upon completing this campaign, the aircraft will return to service with a Supplemental Type Certificate configuration, advancing our certification and commercialization objectives.”
The Cessna Caravan has been upgraded with a glass cockpit, advanced avionics, new sensors, autopilot, and an automated communication system. Its advanced automation features dual redundancy, similar to those in Part 25 air transport category aircraft, enhancing reliability and safety. After initial integration check flights in June 2024, the aircraft has undergone functional check flights and is now undergoing comprehensive testing, with the campaign expected to conclude in Q3 2024 with the validation of Merlin’s automatic flight control system.
This milestone underscores Merlin’s dedication to advancing aviation safety and efficiency by introducing automated takeoff and landing capabilities on a Part 23 aircraft. The ongoing testing and validation will ensure seamless operation of all aircraft systems, laying the groundwork for further refinement of the Merlin Pilot.
Sherif Ali, Chief Engineer at Merlin, remarked, “Our approach to this flight test campaign mirrors our meticulous process with our Certification System Bench. We have completely overhauled the Cessna Caravan, integrating state-of-the-art avionics, modern display systems, and custom hardware and software for the Merlin Pilot. This includes an air data computer, inertial navigation system, heading system, and radar altimeter, all integrated to meet high certification standards. The Merlin Pilot uses this data to navigate and control the aircraft effectively. It’s exciting to be part of a company committed to advancing our certification process with each flight hour.Merlin, a venture-backed aerospace startup, is developing a non-human pilot system designed to enable both reduced crew and fully uncrewed flights. Supported by top global investors, Merlin is expanding its capabilities with the help of its customers to harness autonomous technology and tackle major aviation challenges. For more information, visit www.merlinlabs.com or follow us on Twitter @merlinaero.