Merlin has chosen Laurence G. Hanscom Field in Bedford, Massachusetts as its next test flight centre, with operations planned to begin in early 2027. The company will use hangar, office and laboratory space in a former Navy hangar.

The facility will support Merlin’s certification-ready Cessna Caravan, which has the world’s only approved certification basis for AI-enabled, takeoff-to-touchdown onboard autonomy. The company expects the move to bring jobs to the region and to contribute to New England’s technology and aerospace community.

“Establishing Hanscom Field as our new flight test centre is a major milestone in advancing autonomy in aviation as we get closer to becoming the first certified AI-enabled, takeoff-to-touchdown system,” says Matt George, CEO and founder, Merlin. “This facility enables us to accelerate testing on our certification-ready aircraft, directly supporting our ongoing partnerships with the military. By expanding our operations in New England, we are not only investing in the region's technology and aerospace talent but also supporting national security.”

Merlin is currently testing at Quonset State Airport in Rhode Island, having relocated there from Mojave, California in late 2024 to be closer to its Boston headquarters. Some dual operations may continue at both airports.