Technology
Monday, April 22nd, 2024 6:50 pm EDT
Key Points
- Closure of Lockeford Drone Delivery Operations: Amazon is shutting down its drone delivery operations in Lockeford, California, one of the earliest test sites for its Prime Air program.
- Continued Expansion Plans: Despite the closure, Amazon remains committed to expanding drone deliveries, with intentions to introduce services in more U.S. cities by 2025 and plans to open operations in part of the Phoenix area later this year, pending regulatory approval.
- Technological Advancements and Regulatory Progress: Amazon is conducting test flights of its new MK30 delivery drone, designed to be smaller, quieter, and capable of flying through light rain. While the company obtained Part 135 certification from the FAA in 2020, the progress of Prime Air has been hindered by layoffs, regulatory hurdles, and executive departures. However, Amazon continues to advance its drone delivery efforts, evident in its recent deal with Embention to enhance safety-related hardware and software for its drones.
Amazon has announced the closure of its drone delivery operations in Lockeford, California, marking a setback for its ambitious Prime Air program, which has faced challenges since its inception in 2013. Despite struggles, Amazon remains committed to expanding drone deliveries, with plans to introduce services in the Phoenix area later this year and in more U.S. cities by 2025. The company cited a need to prioritize resources for program growth as it closes the Lockeford site, offering affected employees opportunities at other locations while assuring residents that alternative delivery methods remain available. Amazon is currently testing its new MK30 delivery drone, designed for reliability, size, and noise reduction, and obtained Part 135 certification from the FAA in 2020. However, the program faced delays, layoffs, regulatory hurdles, and executive departures, hindering its progress. Despite challenges, Amazon continues its push for drone delivery expansion, exemplified by its recent deal with Embention to enhance safety-related hardware and software for its drones.
For the full original article on CNBC, please click here: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/22/amazon-ends-drone-program-in-california-as-it-eyes-arizona-launch.html
