FAA authorizes Zipline to deliver commercial packages beyond visual line of sight without observers

Zipline/Platform 2 (P2)

The FAA authorised Zipline to make commercial drone deliveries beyond the operator's line of sight without ground observers watching the sky, around Salt Lake City and Bentonville, Arkansas, using its Sparrow drone which drops packages by parachute. It was the fourth such authorisation, a step the industry had pursued for over a decade.

• Sparrow drone capable of traveling up to 120 miles with advanced onboard perception system
• Includes ADS-B transponders and acoustic avoidance technology for safety during BVLOS operations
• Zipline is FAA-certificated Part 135 operator conducting commercial air cargo operations
• Approval enables economically feasible drone delivery at scale without visual observers along delivery routes