On 4th December 2024, Amazon began testing drone-based small package deliveries in Italy, confirming that the first successful delivery took place in Abruzzo. The drone transported an Alexa-integrated alarm clock from the distribution centre in San Salvo to a nearby residence. For this trial phase, Amazon is using the MK-30 drone, which boasts a range of 24 kilometres and can carry loads of up to 2.3 kilograms, despite weighing 36 kilograms itself. This capacity covers over ninety percent of items sold on the e-commerce platform.
A designated take-off and landing area has been established outside distribution centres, where an operator loads the drone with the package. Upon reaching its destination, the drone releases the package from an altitude of approximately four metres. The trial will continue in other regions, and Amazon expects to launch regular drone delivery services by the end of 2025. Amazon is able to conduct these trials in Italy after receiving authorisation from Enac and Enav.
The MK-30 drone is an evolution of the MK-27-2 model. Compared to its predecessor, it offers increased range (with a flight radius of twelve kilometres), better weather resilience (capable of flying in light rain), and is 25% quieter. The MK-30 can fly up to an altitude of 120 metres and is more compact and lightweight than its predecessor. A key feature of the MK-30 drone is its computer vision system, which ensures safe autonomous flight using deep learning neural networks that automatically process images through multiple layers of artificial neurons, allowing the drone to interpret its surroundings. This technology enables the identification and classification of objects, people, and obstacles in real time.
