Amazon to expand drone delivery program to nearly 500 cities, towns across U.S.

Amazon said it plans to expand its Prime Air drone delivery service to nearly 500 cities and towns across the U.S. by the end of 2026, increasing its reach sixfold.

The company said the service will bring 30-minute delivery options to tens of millions of customers and offer millions of eligible products, including groceries, electronics, medications, cosmetics, and household items.

Prime Air currently operates in parts of Arizona, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Nebraska, and Texas. Amazon said it plans to launch service in additional metro areas, including Chicago, Atlanta, Cleveland, Syracuse, and Boise.

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Most items weighing five pounds or less are eligible for drone delivery. Amazon says more than 60% of the products customers buy most often qualify for the service.

Customers can place orders through the Amazon app, select a delivery location on their property and receive their package by drone, often within an hour.

Amazon said its drones use onboard cameras and sensors to avoid obstacles and operate under Federal Aviation Administration certification. The company said the drones do not track individuals or provide live video monitoring.

The expansion is part of Amazon’s broader effort to speed up deliveries, alongside its same-day and one-hour delivery services.

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