Amazon to test drones in US

Washington, March 20: US aviation officials announced on Friday they will allow online giant Amazon to carry out testing for its drone programme which could be used for quick deliveries.

The Federal Aviation Administration statement said it issued “an experimental airworthiness certificate” to Amazon Logistics so it can test its unmanned aircraft design.

The certificate allows Amazon to conduct flights at 400 feet or below during daylight hours, with the drone “within visual line-of-sight of the pilot and observer.” The person controlling the drone must have at least a private pilot’s certificate and medical certification, FAA said.

Amazon must provide monthly data to FAA on the number of flights conducted and report any problems stemming from the tests.

Amazon in 2014 wrote the FAA threatening to take much of its research for its drone programme outside the US amid frustrations with the regulatory agency. The company hopes to develop a delivery system which would dispatch small packages in 30 minutes.

In February, US authorities issued sweeping guidelines governing the drones for civilian purposes, following testing at six sites. Under proposed rules, the person controlling a drone would be considered an “operator” and would be required to obtain an FAA certificate. — AFP