Amazon Launches Prime Air Drone Delivery in Richardson Texas

Amazon Inc. launched its Prime Air drone delivery service in Richardson, Texas, after receiving zoning approval from city officials and clearance from the Federal Aviation Administration. The service aims to deliver small items to customers within 30 minutes.

Local residents near the distribution center have protested the service, describing the drones as sounding like "flying lawn mowers." These residents have formed neighborhood groups to challenge the frequency and altitude of flights, citing privacy concerns and a loss of serenity in their backyards. In response, Richardson residents are contacting officials in other cities, including El Paso, Texas, and Richmond, Virginia, to warn against the program.

Amazon maintains that customer response is overwhelmingly positive and that noise complaints are minimal. The company plans to expand Prime Air deliveries to 500 towns and cities by the end of the year.