Amazon to expand drone delivery reach sixfold this year

Amazon plans to expand its Prime Air drone delivery service to nearly 500 U.S. communities by the end of 2026, up from the current 11 locations. With the MK30 drone, capable of carrying up to five pounds, Prime Air aims to deliver items in as little as 30 minutes. The service will initially launch in Chicago, Syracuse, Cleveland, Atlanta, and Boise metro areas, with more locations added later this year.

Amazon Prime Air is currently operating in several U.S. cities, including Tolleson, Arizona; Ruskin, Florida; Kansas City, Kansas; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Detroit metro; Papillon, Nebraska; Houston metro; Dallas metro; San Antonio and Waco, Texas. Amazon also offers same-day or next-day delivery through its Prime Now service, expanding to 80 cities and towns across the U.S. and several cities in Egypt.

Faster delivery, coupled with a broad selection of products, drives customers to make more purchases on Amazon. Drone delivery is a free service for Prime members on orders of $50 or more, and $2.99 for orders under $50. Customers can select a delivery zone on their property and must clear the area for safe drop-off. Amazon's drone service is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration and uses onboard cameras and sensors for navigation and obstacle detection.