Amazon said on Wednesday that it will expand its drone delivery service to reach hundreds of U.S. cities and towns by the end of the year. The service currently operates from 11 hubs, covering many nearby communities. The new rollout will bring the number of serviced locations to about 500.
The company already delivers from hubs in places like Papillion, Nebraska, and Ruskin, Florida. It plans to open new hubs in Syracuse, New York, near Cleveland, and several other areas. One hub can serve towns within roughly a 7.5‑mile radius.
Amazon’s Prime Air drones have evolved since 2013. Earlier models landed to drop packages, but the current MK30 model hovers a few feet above the ground and releases the parcel. Customers pay $4.99 for a drone delivery, $2 less for Prime members, and the fee is waived for orders of $50 or more.
Before opening a new hub, Amazon must get approval from local councils and listen to residents. The company has Federal Aviation Administration permission to fly drones across most of the U.S., but each community may still hold hearings. This process ensures safety and addresses local concerns.
In May, Amazon executive Sam Bailey spoke at a planning meeting in Nampa, Idaho. Residents asked about noise, safety and the impact on birds. After a discussion, the council unanimously approved the drone rollout for that area.
Bailey said the drones will make a small noise for about 20 seconds while descending, then fly away at a level quieter than a lawnmower. He added that drone delivery can help older adults, parents with sick children and people who forget groceries. He described it as a brief experience, similar to a delivery truck arriving on the street.
Amazon hopes the expanded service will bring faster deliveries to many communities. The company will continue to work with regulators and local governments to make the service safe and reliable.