Key Points
- Amazon is officially canceling its commercial drone delivery project in Italy.
- The company recently completed successful tests in the Abruzzo region in late 2024.
- Amazon blames Italy’s “broader business regulatory framework” for the decision.
- Italy’s aviation authority claims the move is due to Amazon’s internal financial issues.
Amazon announced on Sunday that it is officially stopping its plans to deliver packages by drone in Italy. This decision came as a shock to local aviation experts, especially since the company had recently celebrated successful test flights in the country.
Just a few weeks ago, in December 2024, Amazon finished a series of initial tests in the town of San Salvo. At the time, it looked like the project was moving forward quickly. However, a new strategic review changed everything. Amazon explained that, while it had a strong relationship with Italian aerospace regulators, the country’s overall business rules did not align with its long-term goals.
The Italian civil aviation authority, known as ENAC, expressed surprise at the move. In a statement released on Saturday, they called the decision “unexpected.” According to ENAC, the cancellation isn’t just about local regulations. They believe the move is tied to “recent financial events” happening within the Amazon Group. Essentially, the agency suggests that Amazon is tightening its belt and cutting projects that cost too much money.
Amazon’s official statement focused more on the legal environment. A spokesperson told Reuters that the “broader business regulatory framework” in Italy isn’t sufficiently supportive at this time. This likely refers to complex labor laws, taxes, or broader business restrictions that extend beyond flying drones.
This cancellation is a major setback for fans of high-tech delivery in Europe. Amazon has spent years trying to get its Prime Air service off the ground, but it has faced constant hurdles with both technology and local laws.
For now, shoppers in Italy will have to keep getting their packages the old-fashioned way—by van. The company did not say if it plans to try again in the future, but for now, the drones are staying on the ground.
