I too am a Merlin Driver, AND I saw the accident, but I believe it is pointless pontificating about what did or didn't happen, or how much the beast costs, or if any of the active fleet have any sort of defect. This fine NEW aircraft has a lot of potential and is certainly the best kerosene budgie I have flown but, unfortunately, its detractors now have even more ammunition to bitch about it.
Bootneck, please stop second guessing the AI/BOI (unless you really are on it - you seem to know more than them at present)
Fatman, I'll see you at the North Coast for 7 consecutive Check Test Flights.