Amazon recently announced they intend to use drones to speed delivery of customer packages to their front door. The service, in testing phase currently, is to be called Amazon Prime Air. While I have no doubt they really are testing a system like this, for now it seems more like a publicity stunt. They are just the latest in a line of companies announcing drone deliveries of everything from pizza to textbooks. I would not be surprised to see UPS, FedEx, DHL, and other shipping firms start their own testing programs.
While I think the concept is interesting, regulations will obviously need to be worked out first, and reliable systems with proven track records will have to be developed.
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@Phillip ;-)
Looks like they are using 3DR's GPS/compass module (external version) - look closely on the pics. Maybe that means the APM as well :)
So its cheaper to hire licenced pilots than spotty youths driving multiple packages in vans who knew! FedEx is keen on starting a service to replace all the caravan drivers they have. Expect the first service to be between China and Australia though.
The full story from 60mins
http://www.cbs.com/shows/60_minutes/video/jsew__gnI4_Lh_p4_Md6m1tw5...
Amazon doesn't have pilots like us. Just wait, someone is going to get killed.
That is what I was thinking...?
April December fools!
An additional thought. As more companies promote these types of systems, the more the public will come to see drones as something other than weapons, or surveillance platforms. This is obviously good for all of us in the long run.
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