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Drones to descend on the West Valley as Amazon launches new delivery program

Since expanding the program into Texas, Amazon has already delivered thousands of items using drones.
Credit: AP
This photo provided by Amazon shows a drone delivering presciption drugs in College Station, Texas. (Amazon via AP)

TOLLESON, Ariz. — Look up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... Your latest impulse buy from Amazon?

It's not impossible. Amazon announced on Monday that they would be bringing their Prime Air drone-based delivery system to the West Valley.

The program launched in California in 2022 and recently expanded to Texas. Now, they're getting ready to roll out services from the Tolleson Same-Day Delivery site.

VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL: Pronto podrá recibir paquetes de Amazon por medio de un dron en el oeste del valle

Amazon officials are still working with the FAA and local authorities to obtain all the permits and permissions they'd need to launch their drones. However, the company expects to start delivering by drone later this year.

"As Amazon embarks on the national expansion of its Amazon Drone Delivery Program, we're proud to have their innovative presence in our community. By bringing this service to new communities, they're not just delivering goods; they're delivering opportunities and economic growth for all,” said Tolleson Mayor Juan F. Rodriguez. “Amazon’s commitment to innovation exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our city forward.”

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego also endorsed the program, saying that "the shift toward zero-emission package delivery will help us reduce local pollution and further cement our city as a hotbed for the innovative technology of tomorrow."

Amazon will be using the MK30 drone which they say is a more lightweight and environmentally-friendly approach to delivery services.

Eligible customers will be able to get things like pharmaceuticals, small household goods, and more. You can register to be notified when drone delivery is available by clicking here.

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