Twelve years of research and testing led Professor Albert A. Merril of the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena to create a light, multi-purpose aircraft, named the Merrill CIT-9 Safety Plane. This innovative single-seat biplane was the culmination of a decade dedicated to aviation safety and efficiency.
The Pioneering Design of the Merrill CIT-9
The Merrill CIT-9 was a single-strut biplane, powered by a five-cylinder Kinner radial engine producing 45 hp. Its most remarkable feature was its movable wings, capable of varying the angle of attack during flight, representing a significant advancement in aircraft control and stability for its era.
Development and Production
The first variant of the aircraft, identified as X5665, was tested in 1926, marking the beginning of its evaluation. Five years after these initial trials, Professor Merril founded the Merrill Aircraft Co. With his new company, he successfully built eight additional and improved examples of the Merrill CIT-9, solidifying his vision.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | CIT-9 |
| Wingspan, m | 7.32 |
| Engine type | 1 Kinner Piston engine |
| Power, hp | 1 x 45 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 121 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 95 |
| Crew | 1 |
Image gallery of the Merrill CIT-9 Safety Plane
