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The Fairchild Merlin III B is a respected twin-turboprop aircraft engineered for regional business and executive travel, comfortably seating up to eight passengers while delivering a high-speed cruise of 290 knots and a range of over 2,200 nautical miles. Introduced in the late 1970s, it quickly established itself as a mainstay for operators seeking a blend of jet-like speed, robust performance, and the reliability of turboprop technology.
For discerning travelers and business leaders, the Merlin III B stands out as a versatile solution for point-to-point missions, offering a spacious pressurized cabin and the ability to operate from shorter runways where jets can’t go. Explore this profile for in-depth specifications, cabin layouts, operational range, indicative charter pricing, and essential insights for booking your next mission.

Occupying a unique space in the turboprop segment, the Fairchild Merlin III B marries the efficiency and short-field capability of a propeller-driven aircraft with the comfort and speed of many light jets. The aircraft’s executive configuration typically seats up to eight passengers, with thoughtful design elements that maximize usable space and productivity on board. Powered by two Garrett TPE331 turboprop engines, it can climb to altitudes up to 28,000 feet, offering a smooth ride above weather and commercial traffic.
The Merlin III B’s appeal lies in its operational flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Its relatively low fuel burn and robust systems make it the aircraft of choice for operators who value consistent dispatch reliability, while its tricycle landing gear and rugged airframe allow access to a broad range of airports, including those with challenging surfaces or limited infrastructure. This makes it ideal for both executive charter and cargo missions where adaptability is paramount.
For charter clients, the Merlin III B delivers the rare combination of comfort, efficiency, and runway versatility—making regional and cross-country trips both practical and economical by private aviation standards.
The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.
Aircraft class:
Turbo Prop
Passenger capacity:
Up to 7 (typical), 8 maximum
Crew:
2 pilots
Range:
Approximately 2230 nautical miles (around 2565 statute miles)
High-speed cruise:
290 knots (about 334 mph)
Long-range cruise:
Approximately 240 knots
Service ceiling:
28000 fee
Engines:
Two Garrett TPE331 turboprop engines
Thrust:
Roughly lbf per engine
Takeoff distance:
About 3200 feet
Landing distance:
About 3118 feet
Average fuel burn:
Around 85 gallons per hour
Baggage capacity:
Approximately 105 cubic feet
First delivered:
Late 1970s

The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

With its maximum range of approximately 2,230 nautical miles, the Fairchild Merlin III B is perfectly equipped for regional and cross-country flights, connecting city pairs like Dallas to Chicago, Toronto to Miami, or London to Rome without refueling. Its efficient fuel burn and high-speed cruise allow for swift nonstop journeys while maintaining cost control for operators and travelers alike. | The Merlin III B’s short takeoff and landing runs provide access to smaller airports and secondary fields, meaning you can fly closer to your final destination and avoid the congestion of major hubs. Its twin Garrett engines ensure reliable climb performance and operational integrity, even in challenging weather or remote locations. | With a service ceiling of 28,000 feet and a cruise speed of 290 knots, the Merlin III B offers a smooth, swift, and efficient ride—ideal for business trips, leisure escapes, or quick cargo missions.

Step into the Merlin III B’s pressurized cabin and experience comfort rarely matched in its class. The interior offers stand-up headroom for much of the aisle and a generous cabin width, allowing passengers to move about easily and enjoy the flight. | Typical seating features a club arrangement for four, complemented by additional executive seats, all finished with high-quality upholstery and large windows that fill the space with natural light. The quiet, climate-controlled environment ensures productivity and relaxation, whether you’re flying for business or pleasure. | A well-designed baggage compartment of 105 cubic feet accommodates substantial luggage or specialty gear, making this aircraft a favorite among groups traveling with golf bags, skis, or extended-stay essentials. Many Merlin III Bs have been updated with modern amenities such as in-flight power, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems—details that transform every trip into a premium experience.


Chartering a Fairchild Merlin III B typically runs in the range of $1800 to $2500 per flight hour, though the figure you are quoted depends on several factors. Rates move with the route, the season, repositioning (or ferry) time, airport fees, crew costs, and how a specific aircraft is equipped. Peak travel periods and one-way trips that leave an aircraft far from its base tend to sit at the higher end, while round trips and flights that align with an operator's existing schedule can come in lower.

It also helps to understand how charter pricing is structured. Most quotes are built around occupied flight hours plus those repositioning costs, landing and handling fees, taxes, and crew expenses. Because Jettly is a charter marketplace rather than an aircraft operator, you can compare live quotes from multiple FAA Part 135 and book the option that fits your route and budget.

Empty-leg flights, the discounted repositioning trips that operators are keen to fill, can also bring the cost of a Fairchild Merlin III B down significantly when the timing works in your favor. For an exact, current price on your specific trip, request a quote, and you will see real availability rather than an estimate.
The Fairchild Merlin III B fits a wide set of missions, which is part of why it stays busy. It is a strong match for:
While not designed for ultra-long international flights, the Merlin III B is the perfect choice for regional and mid-range routes, especially when flying to airports that jets can’t reach. For business teams, leisure groups, or travelers seeking the best balance of speed, comfort, and cost on missions of up to eight passengers, it offers an outstanding value proposition.

The Merlin III B stands apart in the turboprop market with its rare combination of jet-like speed, robust construction, and runway flexibility. Unlike many light jets, it’s capable of accessing shorter and more remote airfields, making it ideal for travelers who value convenience and time savings.
Compared to models like the King Air 200, the Merlin III B delivers comparable cabin comfort while often offering greater baggage capacity and slightly faster cruise speeds. Its proven Garrett engines and straightforward systems ensure consistent performance and straightforward maintenance for operators.
For those seeking a reliable, cost-effective alternative to light jets without sacrificing comfort or capability, the Merlin III B remains a top contender in the charter market.
The Merlin III B traces its roots back to the innovative Swearingen Metro and Merlin series of the late 1960s—a family of aircraft designed to bridge the gap between piston twins and light jets. The Merlin III B, first delivered in the late 1970s, incorporated numerous advancements: pressurization for passenger comfort, upgraded avionics, and enhanced systems for both reliability and performance.
Significant milestones for the Merlin III B include the adoption of the Garrett TPE331 engines, which provided exceptional efficiency and long service intervals. Its robust airframe and proven systems made it a favorite for both executive operators and regional airlines, with many aircraft still flying today thanks to strong aftermarket support and ongoing upgrades.
The Merlin III B’s legacy is defined by its versatility and dependability, continuing to serve as a trusted asset for private charter, corporate shuttle, and air cargo operations around the globe.

The Fairchild Merlin III B is typically configured for seven or eight passengers in an executive layout, with most cabins featuring a club arrangement and additional seating that supports both work and relaxation.

The Fairchild Merlin III B has a range of approximately 2230 nautical miles, or roughly 2565 statute miles. That is enough to fly most regional routes and many transcontinental trips nonstop, with the longest coast-to-coast legs occasionally needing a brief fuel stop depending on winds and load.

Its high-speed cruise is 290 knots (about 334 mph), with a long-range cruise near 240 knots. The aircraft's 28000-foot service ceiling lets it fly above most weather and traffic for a smoother, more direct trip.

Charter rates generally fall between roughly $1800 and $2500 per flight hour, depending on the route, season, repositioning, and fees. Because Jettly is a marketplace, you can compare live quotes from multiple Part 135 operators and book the best option for your trip; empty-leg flights can lower the cost further.

Yes. The Merlin III B’s pressurized cabin offers stand-up headroom for much of the aisle, a private lavatory, and a spacious baggage area of 105 cubic feet—ensuring comfort and flexibility for all passengers.

The Merlin III B can handle most regional and mid-range routes in North America and Europe without refueling. While it isn’t designed for transoceanic trips, it easily covers flights such as New York to Miami or Paris to Madrid nonstop.
Jettly gives you access to a global marketplace of more than 23,000 aircraft, including Fairchild Merlin III B jets operated by vetted FAA Part 135 Part 135 carriers. Compare live quotes, check real availability, and book with full concierge support, whether you are planning a single regional hop or a recurring travel schedule.
Enter your route and dates to get instant pricing on the Fairchild Merlin III B, or speak with our team about empty-leg deals and membership options that can bring your cost per trip down even further.
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Disclaimer: Jettly operates as a charter broker, offering access to a global digital jet charter marketplace. Jettly is not a direct air carrier and does not own or operate aircraft. All advertised flights are conducted by third-party air carriers that are fully licensed and hold the appropriate Part 135 or Part 121 certifications issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or equivalent regulatory authorities under U.S. or foreign law. Jettly complies fully with the U.S. Department of Transportation's Part 295 and Part 298 Charter Broker regulations. Jettly does not carry additional liability insurance. Passengers are covered by aircraft operator insurance. TICO: 50023770