WACO — The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating Amazon after one of its MK30 delivery drones struck an overhead internet cable in Waco on November 18. According to Amazon and federal officials, the drone clipped the line shortly after completing a delivery and performed an emergency landing as designed.
Amazon says the drone executed a 'Safe Contingent Landing,' a built-in safety protocol triggered when its sensors detect a collision or malfunction. The company confirmed there were no injuries, no property damage and no widespread internet outages tied to the incident.
FAA officials say the drone made contact with a utility line located above the delivery area, and video reviewed by investigators shows the aircraft’s propeller becoming entangled as it ascended from a customer’s yard. The agency is now reviewing what led to the strike and whether the flight complied with federal safety requirements for autonomous aircraft.
The probe comes as Amazon continues testing and expanding its drone delivery program in select U.S. cities, including parts of Texas. The FAA has not released a timeline for its investigation, and Amazon says it is cooperating fully with regulators.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube