Amazon Prime Air Drones Launch in Kansas City Skies
Amazon has officially launched its Prime Air drone delivery service in Kansas City, Kansas, marking a significant step in its delivery operations. This service, utilizing FAA-approved electric drones, commenced on February 9, 2026, from a facility next to the Amazon fulfillment center at 6925 Riverview Ave.
About Amazon Prime Air Drones
Amazon’s drones are designed to deliver packages weighing up to 5 pounds within a 7.5-mile radius of the fulfillment center. This delivery option is available during daylight hours, with Prime members paying $4.99 per delivery. In contrast, non-Prime customers will incur a fee of $9.99.
Delivery Efficiency and Impact
Amazon promises that customers can expect their packages within 60 minutes or less. This innovative delivery method aims to ease road traffic and reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional delivery methods.
Expanding Reach of Prime Air
Kansas City is now the seventh metropolitan area in the United States to offer Amazon Prime Air drone delivery. Other cities that have implemented this service include:
- Phoenix
- Dallas–Fort Worth
- Waco
- San Antonio
- Tampa
- Detroit
Collaboration with Local Authorities
To ensure safety and prevent conflict in the skies, the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department (KCKPD) is actively collaborating with Amazon. Police Captain Kevin Fithian emphasized the importance of communication between the two entities, stating they have regularly discussed operational safety.
“We’ve been in constant contact with Amazon before the launch,” Fithian mentioned. They are sharing real-time data regarding drone locations to avoid midair collisions. Currently, all drones are required to yield to manned aircraft, including police drones.
Safety Measures and Public Assurance
Fithian reassured the public that Amazon is taking necessary steps to prioritize safety. The police department’s testing has shown that drone technology is reliable and safe. “Drones are not going to be falling out of the sky,” he asserted, addressing public concerns. Most modern drones come equipped with advanced safety features.
Drones were spotted taking off from the fulfillment center shortly after the official launch, although Amazon has indicated that full operational capabilities are expected to be achieved by this spring.
