UK aviation regulator clears Amazon for expanded drone delivery

LONDON, Nov 10 (Reuters) - Amazon has secured a world-first safety approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, clearing the way for the company to expand its drone delivery trial in northern England, it said on Tuesday.

• Earlier this year, Amazon became the first retailer in the UK to start a drone delivery service with a limited launch in Darlington, north east England, operating in less densely populated areas

• The new approvals mean Amazon Prime Air can expand its service into more populated communities, with the number of eligible customers increasing from around 600 to 8,000 in the Darlington area

• Amazon Prime Air has now secured a SAIL 4 (Specific Assurance and Integrity Level 4) operating authorisation and flightworthiness validation from the UK CAA

• Amazon said the milestone lays the groundwork for wider expansion of drone delivery services across the UK

• The drones can deliver everyday essentials, from nappies to household products, directly to customers' doors in under two hours

• Amazon achieving the approvals "demonstrates not only the safety and integrity of their aircraft and operation, but also their commitment to innovation and growth in the UK aerospace sector," Sophie O'Sullivan, director of future safety & innovation at the UK CAA, said

• Amazon is also developing drone deliveries in the United States. It plans to reach nearly 500 cities and towns in the US by the end of 2026

(Reporting by James Davey; editing by Sarah Young)