FAA shoots down Amazon drones

It’s widely known that Amazon is hoping to one day give the ability to consumers to purchase something from its website, and have it delivered via drones withing 30-45 minutes.

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Known as Amazon Prime Air, the unmanned aircraft (drones) would be located at central Amazon warehouses across the United States, and would be available for selecting as an extra shipping option for Amazon Prime subscribers. Unfortunately, one powerful entity is making sure that these drones never see the open skies.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued yet another release regarding the use of drones, stating that the incidents involving drones and large groups of people have forced the agency to come down hard on those who use these machines for non-hobby purposes.

“We want people who fly model aircraft for recreation to enjoy their hobby – but to enjoy it safely,” Anthony Foxx, Transportation Secretary, said in a statement. “At DOT, we often say that safety is a shared responsibility, so to help, we are providing additional information today to make sure model aircraft operators know exactly what’s expected of them.”

FAA Administrator Michael Huerta added that it’s all about protecting the public.

“We have a mandate to protect the American people in the air and on the ground, and the public expects us to carry out that mission,” he said.

What are your thoughts on the FAA all but deeming Amazon’s Prime Air drones illegal? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Mike’s Musings: I really like the idea of the personal delivery drones for products ordered online. Though I do understand where the FAA is coming from, I feel some sort of compromise could be made between the Seattle-based company and the federal agency.