SUPPLY CHAIN TECHNOLOGY
Amazon’ s Prime Air drone delivery service has proven to be a critical part of the last-mile delivery. The service launched in 2022 in the US, with announcements following soon after with expansion plans in the UK.
With Prime Air, deliveries are made in 60 minutes or less, relying on the MK30 drone to deliver products safely. The drone uses industry-leading detectand-avoid technology, navigating around objects, people and animals with ease. The drones then rely on digital mapping and AI systems to transport the item from the fulfillment centre to the delivery site. Real-time weather signals are used when consumers are checking out, so they are not an option in adverse weather conditions.
Amazon’ s drones can carry items weighing up to 5lbs which can fit into a large shoebox. Prime Air is a major step towards fast, safe and reliable delivery, with capabilities of travelling up to 70mph. Moreover, it is quieter than a delivery van, meaning less noise pollution. Prior to deployment, the drone undertook more than 5,100 test flights, with more than 900 hours in the air. supplychaindigital. com 111