Flying Drones Delay
Flying drones? A futuristic idea could become a reality for Amazon, if the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approves drone testing.
“We are hopeful that this permission will be granted quickly,” Paul Misener, Amazon’s vice president for global public policy said.
Amazon has already tested drones in other countries, but the FAA’s regulation has delayed tests in the U.S. Originally, the FAA strictly forbade drones for unmanned commercial aircraft, but has since softened this regulation with conditions. The agency lists that the drones must weigh less than 55 pounds, travel no faster than 100 miles per hour, fly under 500 feet, and only be operated in daylight. However, Amazon’s drones are on hold until the FAA reaches a full decision on regulation.
“Nowhere outside of the United States have we been required to wait more than one or two months to begin testing,” Misener said. “This low level of government attention and slow pace are inadequate, especially compared to the regulatory efforts in other countries.”
Amazon is well known and respected for its quality service, especially under their prime membership. Members are able to order items from Amazon and receive them in two days via free prime shipping. With Amazon Air Prime, the service would be even faster. According to Amazon’s website, the drones are designed to reach customers within 30 minutes or less safely with ‘small unmanned aerial vehicles’ – a highly ambitious goal.
Drone delivery has been commercialized in a limited basis in China, and the U.S. would fall behind if drones are not popularized. President Barack Obama and Senator Cory Brook have all expressed support for the FAA to create a framework for their use.
“For us to remain globally competitive, there’s not a moment to spare: The FAA should fast-track the approval of these safety regulations and privacy protections,” Senator Brook wrote to CNN.
Flying drones may very well be seen in the same light as a FedEx truck within the next few years. However, until Amazon can move forward, a promising service remains inactive.
FSA Practice Questions
- What does the word ‘framework’ mean?
- How does the author feel about flying drones?
- What is the agency that regulates aviation?
- Select a sentence that highlights the main idea.
- What is the main idea?
Kevin “K.Chow” Chow is currently a senior at Freedom High School. He was born in Auckland, New Zealand and his family relocated to Australia and Tampa....
