Swearingen Merlin

The Swearingen Merlin is a twin‑engine, pressurized turboprop that entered service in the early 1970s under the Fairchild banner. Developed from the earlier Swearingen SA‑226 T‑AT, the Merlin (designated SA‑226TC) combined a sleek, low‑wing airframe with Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A‑35 engines, delivering 620 shp per propeller. First flown on 12 September 1971, the aircraft quickly attracted corporate and regional operators because of its relatively high cruise speed—around 300 knots—its 6‑8 passenger capacity, and its capability to operate from short, unimproved runways. Key features include a fully pressurized cabin, retractable landing gear, and a modern avionics suite that was upgraded over its production life. Fairchild’s acquisition of Swearingen Aircraft in 1977 solidified the Merlin’s production, resulting in over 500 units built before the line ended in 1995. The Merlin’s blend of speed, efficiency, and comfort set a new standard for turboprop business aircraft, influencing later designs such as the Beechcraft King Air 200 series and carving a niche for fast, short‑haul commuter service worldwide. Many operators still preserve the type in their fleets, valuing its reliability and low operating costs, while aviation enthusiasts regard the Merlin as a classic example of 1970s American engineering excellence.