This would change the LSA group of Aircraft if put in production. This would be the perfect Backcountry Aircraft to fly into a high mountain lake or river to camp and fish. I’m thinking real hard about the Merlin PSA and converting it so one person could sleep in it. Not sure if this is possible because of the Airframe. I would have to remove the luggage area without compromising the strength of the Airframe and create a removable seat back. But it would make a great single place camping Bushplane. 🇺🇸🦅✈️
I very seldom write comments but I must say how impressed I am about Chip Irwin’s contributions to the flying community are…very innovative and accessible. Good on you.
I thought this look like a pretty cool plane until the time came when he started the engine, my God sounds like a lawn boy mower engine. A lot of pilots are going to four stroke engines now, four stroke engines are gaining ascendancy. Two cycle engines are a pain in the ass, not as reliable uses more fuel then you got it mixed the oil and fuel. I like the little plane but I would definitely need a different engine!
Two Stroke good oil is important . I have never had any trouble with AMSOIL 2 Stroke oils. I have run a 1980 Vespa P200e with a Sidecar up a 100 series highway for over 100 kms .... Steady. That is torture for the oil. Scooter has been run 15 summers in a row not rebuilt . Still start no problem. I would Fly with AMSOIL !
Yes, the Merlin fits into the LSA box so you can fly it with a sportplane license and no medical. The Merlin Lite has the longer wings and yes it does fit into the motorglider category or Part 103.
Chip, this has to be my fav Merlin Video. Would love to follow along next time watching a vid of some of the legs of the X-country flight from Brandon to Oshkosh in the Merlin PSA
Hello Chip Does the single seat Merlin with correct setup qualify as an aircraft one can fly without a PPL in Australia? Can the kits be shipped here? Thanks. Great airplane!
Hey Chip, I love the plane. I have looked at all of your videos. I was planning on taking steps to arrange build one at your location after the Midwest LSA Expo. Here's a hurdle. The AOPA insurance quote based only on a price of $42,000 came back almost 5 times (cheapest rate they could find.) the price of the certified Piper Tomahawk that I am currently flying. The Tomahawk has a comparable value or $42,000. Your quote to me on the Merlin price was just under $60,000. So, realistically the insurance is probably going to be 6 to 8 times higher than a comparable certified plane. Any suggestions? Do you have another source of insurance?
Most Merlin owners just get liability insurance. Everything is aluminum and modular on the Merlin so it is inexpensive to repair or replace should something get dinged. Also, try Scott Sky Smith for a quote.
Yeah, I have so many ideas and concepts about planes in my head too... Problem is....No where to build...If I solved that problem, I need a basic concept of Full-scale plane design...RC planes...You don't fly in those...You crash...Only your pride and wallet is hurt...Also, like most...Flying area/strip/field and a storage area is a REALLY big factor...I live the biggest state in the union...And, maybe 20% of the land is usable for airstrips...Too rocky, hilly, and scrub brush....Unlike the Midwest, nice and flat....Sooo, alota people would love a plane if they could solve the above issues...😳😳😳!!!!
Hello Mr Erwin! Any news about this idea? We believe it could work really great in Argentina and other country's of south America. I really would like to receive mor information about it. In case you need a partner o dealer in South America please contact me at condorpeakmotors@gmail.com . Thanks
