Amazon is seeking approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to expand its drone delivery service in College Station, Texas, which has been its primary testing ground. However, the program is facing backlash from local residents due to noise concerns. In July, Amazon announced plans to relocate its drone facility further from residential areas.

John Case, a semi-retired orthodontist, described the noise from Amazon's Prime Air drones as resembling a "giant hive of bees." Residents, including nightshift workers, have reported disruptions to their sleep and daily activities due to the drone noise.

Since its inception in 2022, Amazon's drone delivery program has encountered various challenges, including regulatory hurdles, missed deadlines, and layoffs. College Station, located about 100 miles northwest of Houston, has been a key testing site for Prime Air. Despite plans to expand to other locations like Lockeford, California, and Tolleson, Arizona, the program has faced setbacks.

In a letter to the FAA, College Station Mayor John Nichols highlighted residents' concerns about drone noise, particularly during take-off and landing. Amazon has proposed increasing its daily flights from 200 to 469 and extending operating hours from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The company also aims to expand its delivery area from 44 to 174 square miles.

At a city council meeting, residents expressed their frustrations, with one resident comparing the drone noise to a chainsaw. City officials reported that Prime Air drones produce noise levels between 47 and 61 decibels, significantly lower than the 125 decibels of a chainsaw.

Amazon's Prime Air aims to provide a faster, cost-effective solution for last-mile deliveries. Proponents argue that drone delivery can reduce the need for delivery drivers and gas-powered vans. In May, the FAA granted Amazon permission to fly drones over longer distances without ground observers, a significant milestone for the program.

Amazon spokesperson Sam Stephenson stated that the company values community feedback and is committed to making operational adjustments. Despite the noise complaints, some residents appreciate the convenience of quick deliveries.

Amazon plans to introduce a quieter drone model, the MK30, which will fly at higher altitudes and reduce noise by nearly half. However, many residents are calling for the drones to be moved out of their neighborhoods entirely. In response, Amazon is considering relocating its drone operations by October 2025.