Amazon’s latest delivery drone prototype, MK27-2 includes a hexagonal design for stability. Its proprotors have been specifically designed to minimize high-frequency soundwaves. [Courtesy: Amazon]
Key Takeaways:
Amazon Prime Air will launch its drone delivery service in Lockeford, California, "later this year," offering delivery of small household, tech, and personal items (under five pounds) to customer backyards in less than an hour.
Amazon has obtained an FAA Part 135 air carrier certificate, a rigorous requirement for drone operations, making it one of only three companies to achieve this certification.
The drones utilize an advanced "sense-and-avoid system" for safe flight beyond visual line of sight, detecting and avoiding objects, and ensuring the delivery area in the customer's backyard is clear.
Thom is a former senior editor for FLYING. Previously, his freelance reporting appeared in aviation industry magazines. Thom also spent three decades as a TV and digital journalist at CNN’s bureaus in Washington and Atlanta, eventually specializing in aviation. He has reported from air shows in Oshkosh, Farnborough and Paris. Follow Thom on Twitter @thompatterson.
