Tags – Amazon Drones
We’ve all experienced the mad last-minute panic that comes with Christmas shopping.
And with the Coronavirus Pandemic grinding our Christmas shopping to a deafening stop, more of us than ever have turned to online delivery services.
However, thinking our present-buying crisis is over once we’ve hit ‘confirm payment’ is a fantasy.
We’re still plagued by questions like:
Will it arrive on time?
What if I’m not in?
Can I collect it from somewhere?
Do I even have TIME to collect it?
These thoughts accumulate until we end up panicked, confused and surrounded by the remnants of last year’s wrapping paper and realise we’ve forgotten to restock and need to order all over again.
So before you consider ordering a taxi to collect all Christmas delights here’s some good news from our loyal and trustworthy friends at Amazon!
Not only can Amazon ensure next day delivery (a premium price for a premium service) but they have now announced they’re hoping to start delivering parcels by drone in the near future.
However, whether they’ll make the Christmas deadline is another matter. That said, here’s everything you need to know about this exciting new technology.
Service
Amazon Prime Air plans to develop a package delivery service in the US and no doubt in the UK very soon!
This delivery service is unmanned, and available initially for packages under 2.3kg, comprising a 15-mile round trip.
Reducing Emissions
Drone delivery ensures fewer hours spent on the road.
While drone delivery is limited to a 15-mile round trip, it will undoubtedly help reduce emissions.
Aviation Approval
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed that it’s granted Amazon permission to fly drones in US-controlled airspace.
An FAA spokesperson stated that Amazon Prime Air has been issued with a ‘Special Airworthiness Certificate’ which will “allow the company to operate its MK27 unmanned aircraft for research and development and crew training in authorised flight areas.” Meaning we may well see these drones operating in our atmosphere pretty soon!
Safety
There have been concerns surrounding the overall safety of drones.
However, Amazon assures us that safety tests will ensure their drones won’t come into contact with buildings, people, animals or natural obstructions.
But how do they do this?
A combination of six rotors with visual, thermal and ultrasonic sensors, ‘look’ out for any obstruction in the path of the drone and redirect it accordingly.
Amazon has confirmed that even when the connection is lost, their drone can continue to perform this functionality, making the device independently safe.
Noise Levels
Some people are concerned about the noise levels resulting from this new device.
However, Amazon has assured us that it will be no different than the running engine of a delivery driver.
Where Does That Leave Us for Christmas Shopping In 2020?
Well, as impressive as this new service sounds, it doesn’t seem like it will be available in the UK for a while.
And even when it does eventually arrive, you’ll likely be limited as to what you can purchase – both regarding your order’s weight and the distance the drone can travel.
So, all in all, it seems like your best bet is to pick up the phone and call your local cabbie to take you to the shops to do your 2020 Christmas shopping!
To learn more, get in touch with us today.
In the meantime, have a look at our Oxford Taxis service.
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