Autonomous flight technology supplier Merlin has commenced east coast flight operations at Quonset State airport in North Kingston, Rhode Island. Its newly-established flight test centre houses Merlin's certification-ready Cessna Caravan, the designated test aircraft for its STC programme, and serves as the testbed for advancing the Merlin Pilot system, demonstrating the company's ability to safely meet autonomy requirements for fixed-wing platforms.

With its global headquarters in Boston, Massachusetts, the Quonset centre brings flight test operations closer to home, which is a critical advantage as the company advances toward certifying the Merlin Pilot system and enables it to tap into the US Northeast's strong talent pool. Merlin also operates a test centre in Kerikeri, New Zealand, supporting advanced technology development and certification efforts while running freight operations to serve rural communities.

“Merlin is steadily advancing toward our certification and commercialisation goals, with flight testing playing a central role as we demonstrate our ability to integrate safety-critical technology across both military and commercial aircraft,” remarks Matt George, CEO and founder of Merlin. “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. We're proud to continue pioneering autonomous flight technology in a community that actively supports aviation operations.”

Quonset State airport is situated on a peninsula that combines port, rail, road and air transportation facilities, as well as an extensive industrial park. OQU is also home to both the Air and Army National Guard, who use the facility for training and aviation operations.