Amazon suspends MK30 drone deliveries in Texas and Arizona after crashes
Amazon voluntarily suspended its MK30 drone delivery service in Texas and Arizona after two drones crashed at its Oregon testing facility in December 2024, including one that caught fire. The crashes were reportedly caused by a software issue related to rain conditions, prompting the company to make software updates before seeking FAA approval to resume operations.
What happened
Amazon halted commercial drone deliveries in Texas and Arizona on January 17, 2025, following crashes involving its MK30 drones. Two MK30 drones crashed at Amazon's Pendleton, Oregon testing facility in December 2024, with one catching fire on impact.
Amazon determined the crashes resulted from a software issue related to light rain conditions during testing. The company stated that the crashes were not the 'primary reason' for the suspension, but indicated it is making software changes to the drone before resuming operations pending FAA approval.
Reported impact
The suspension temporarily halts the company's Prime Air drone delivery service in Texas and Arizona. The incident follows a history of drone safety issues, including a mid-air collision of two MK30 drones in September 2024 due to operator error during a motor failure simulation.
Index analysis
Amazon characterizes the testing incidents as expected parts of pushing the aircraft past their limits in a closed facility, stating that such incidents help improve operational safety. The company emphasized that its commercial MK30 operations have been conducted safely and in compliance with FAA regulations.
Governance controls
Amazon stated it is voluntarily pausing commercial operations and making software changes before seeking FAA approval to resume. Employees at drone sites were informed of the pause on Friday and continue to be paid during the suspension.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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