Amazon announced on Sunday that it will halt its plans for drone-based deliveries in Italy. The company cited that while initial tests in San Salvo and discussions with Italian aerospace regulators had been successful, broader business regulatory challenges in the country prevented the program from aligning with Amazon’s long-term objectives.
The Italian civil aviation authority, ENAC, described the move as unexpected, noting that it appeared linked to recent financial developments within the Amazon Group rather than technical or regulatory obstacles.
Amazon’s drone delivery initiative had reached a milestone in December 2024 with successful test flights in the central Abruzzo town of San Salvo. The program aimed to explore faster and more efficient delivery methods using autonomous drones, reflecting Amazon’s broader push for innovation in logistics.
In its statement, Amazon said the decision followed a strategic review and emphasized that despite progress with regulators, the existing regulatory framework in Italy did not support the company’s objectives for commercial drone deliveries.
The tech giant continues to evaluate drone delivery opportunities in other markets where regulatory and business conditions are more favorable.
