Amazon and the Federal Aviation Administration are at war over drones. KPLU reports that the Seattle-based etailer is anxious to conduct outdoor flight tests of its drone-based delivery system, Amazon Prime Air, and frustrated with the FAA’s, um, languorous approval process. "Amazon is increasingly concerned that, unless substantial progress is quickly made in opening up the skies in the United States, the nation is at risk of losing its position as the center of innovation for the UAS technological revolution, along with the key jobs and economic benefits that come as a result," warned Amazon vice president of global public policy Paul Misener in a recent, pointed letter to the agency.According to the Guardian, Misener’s threat is not a hollow one. Amazon is already outdoor testing Prime Air drones in the UK. Google is doing the same Down Under. The FAA says it needs more info before greenlighting any outdoor test programs. The agency is in a tough spot: err on the side of safety and risk the wrath of corporate America or cave in to corporate pressure and risk a tragic accident. — M.B.
Amazon, FAA lock horns over drones
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By Mary Bruno
Mary was Crosscut's Editor-in-Chief and Interim Publisher. In more than 25 years as a journalist, she has worked as a writer, editor and editorial director for a variety of print and web publications,
Mary was Crosscut's Editor-in-Chief and Interim Publisher. In more than 25 years as a journalist, she has worked as a writer, editor and editorial director for a variety of print and web publications,