Amazon plans drone delivery expansion to about 500 US locales

Amazon plans to expand its drone delivery service to approximately 500 U.S. cities and towns by the end of the year, from its current 11 locations. The company, founded by Jeff Bezos, initially unveiled the octocopter drones in 2013 and initially projected they would be available within four to five years. Amazon presently conducts deliveries from locations such as Papillion, Nebraska, and Ruskin, Florida, with a single delivery hub capable of serving multiple towns within a 7.5-mile radius.

The improved MK30 model, which hovers above ground and releases packages, is priced at $4.99 per delivery, or $2 less for Prime members, with the fee waived for orders over $50. After being contacted by Reuters on Tuesday, Amazon announced plans for the expansion during a Reuters interview. Regulatory approval from local councils is required in each community, often involving hearings and resident feedback.

Amazon has received FAA approval to operate drones in most areas of the U.S. Critics have expressed concerns about noise, safety, and drone logistics. During a planning and zoning meeting in Nampa, Idaho, in May, Amazon executive Sam Bailey addressed residents' concerns and assured them that the drones would be audible for only 20 seconds during descent and fly away at a noise level lower than a lawnmower.

Despite a few accidents, including a drone colliding with a crane in Arizona in October, Amazon remains committed to the expansion, stating that the technology is inevitable and that finding ways to work with it is necessary.