When Amazon first announced their plans to launch drone delivery systems, it was quite an exciting time, although back then the US government and regulators were a little apprehensive on the idea. It was only in recent times that the US government has relaxed their stance and allowed the company to test out their system.Over in the UK it looks like a completely different story as the government seems to be on board with the idea, and have teamed up with Amazon in a partnership that will allow the company to test their drone delivery systems in the country. This is supported by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Each drone is expected to be able to carry a payload of about 5 pounds or less. According to Amazon, this makes up for about 90% of their sales. Regarding the partnership, an Amazon spokeswoman was quoted as saying, “What it does is strengthen our partnership with the UK for today and for the foreseeable future. We’re not going to launch until we can demonstrate safety, and that’s what this program is going to do.”
Tim Johnson, the CAA policy director adds, “We want to enable the innovation that arises from the development of drone technology by safely integrating drones into the overall aviation system. These tests by Amazon will help inform our policy and future approach.”