Amazon Drone Plan: Westboro Withdrawal

Amazon requested to withdraw its drone delivery project in Westboro, Massachusetts, on Friday. The company sent a letter to the Town of Westboro Planning Board asking to remove the application without prejudice. Amazon spokesperson Lindsay Hamilton confirmed on Sunday that the company intends to submit a new plan in the near future.

Prime Air proposed using autonomous drones measuring approximately 5 feet by 5 feet. These units were designed to deliver packages to customer properties within one hour of an order. The system aimed to reduce road traffic and create highly skilled jobs. Hamilton described the operational sound as minimal and comparable to a passing car.

Local residents opposed the initial plan. At a special town meeting in October, voters approved a measure to regulate noise, nuisance, and privacy issues associated with commercial drone deliveries. The vote counted 510 in favor and 13 against. This action gave the town the authority to manage drone operations from the ground.

Opponents argued that Amazon should not use its current facility on Otis Street to launch the drones. The Federal Aviation Administration has already approved drone deliveries in the area. The FAA largely controls airspace usage, while the town seeks to regulate ground-level impacts.

The Westboro Zoning Board of Appeals is expected to address the topic at its meeting on Monday. Amazon said it will continue community engagement efforts and work with state and local lawmakers. The company plans to resubmit the revised project after further discussions with local stakeholders.

Hamilton stated that Prime Air is a welcome addition to communities. She noted that the service provides convenient fast delivery. The spokesperson added that the company generates minimal short-lived sound. Amazon looks forward to continuing the local approval processes to bring drone delivery to Massachusetts customers.