Amazon is poised to initiate drone delivery trials in the UK.
The American technology powerhouse indicated that its drone service, known as Prime Air, is currently active in two US locations, delivering packages within 60 minutes or less through a fleet of drones that are designed, constructed, and operated by Amazon.
The corporation mentioned that it is submitting a proposal to establish drone flight operations at its fulfillment center on the periphery of Darlington and is seeking authorization from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for these flights.
Amazon expressed that it is “prepared and thrilled to bring drone delivery to our UK customers,” commencing from the Teesside town of Darlington.
“We have established safe and dependable drone delivery services in other parts of the world through close collaboration with regulators and the communities we engage with, and we aim to replicate this in the UK,” said a spokesperson.
“We are pleased to announce that Prime Air is making preparations to initiate preliminary flights from our fulfillment center in Darlington.
“Although there is still significant work ahead, this represents an exhilarating advancement.”
The organization stated that after receiving planning approval and CAA clearance, it would commence the hiring process to launch drone delivery services.
Additionally, it committed to consulting with the local community for input and will host a community gathering at the beginning of next month.
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Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen reported having collaborated closely with Amazon and Teesside International Airport over the last 18 months on this initiative.
“I am thrilled that Teesside will become the site of Amazon’s inaugural drone delivery service in the UK,” he stated.
“In Teesside, we approach challenges differently. We say yes when others claim it is too challenging. We are optimistic, ambitious, and we deliver results.
“We are seizing the opportunities and the excitement of the technological revolution – hence it is no wonder that Amazon has selected Darlington as the venue to launch Prime Air in the UK.
“We have worked diligently with Amazon to bring this first-of-its-kind initiative to Teesside, which will foster high-quality employment, infuse vital multi-million-pound investments into our local economy, and stimulate growth across Teesside, Darlington, and Hartlepool.
“The world is rapidly advancing – and if we do not keep up, we will be left behind. If you’re not first, you’re last.”
Amazon has been refining its drone delivery systems for several years and has previously conducted tests for drone deliveries in the UK, achieving the first autonomous Prime Air delivery in Cambridgeshire back in 2016 during a trial.
