US aims to dominate drone deliveries to boost retail logistics
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The United States is preparing for a significant shift in commercial drone operations. A proposed rule from the Department of Transportation aims to allow routine drone flights beyond visual line of sight, eliminating the need for one-off waivers that have restricted widespread use. Issued in early August, the proposal could streamline regulatory processes and expand access for commercial operators in logistics, retail, public safety and infrastructure.
If adopted, the rule may be the most consequential federal action on unmanned aircraft systems since FAA Part 107 launched in 2016. The new framework, Part 108, would authorize certified companies to conduct long-range flights without visual observers, under a standardized set of safety and compliance requirements.
What the FAA is proposing and why it matters
At the center of the proposal is a shift from waiver-based oversight to certification. Under Part 108, operators would apply for FAA certification instead of seeking individual approvals. Drones would be permitted to fly up to 400 feet above ground from designated FAA-approved launch and recovery sites. All aircraft would need remote identification, real-time tracking, and onboard systems to avoid collisions.
Operators would also undergo security vetting and background checks. Additionally, an FAA-approved third party, known as an Approved Drone Service Provider, would monitor flight operations to maintain compliance and manage low-altitude airspace.
The FAA built the proposal using data from the BEYOND program, which gathered operational insights from more than 70,000 drone flights in its first phase. About 70 percent of those flights occurred beyond visual line of sight, helping the agency evaluate the risks and design safeguards accordingly.
How logistics and retail operators stand to benefit
The rule has direct implications for logistics providers. Amazon and UPS have tested drone delivery systems for years, though progress has been uneven. Amazon suspended trials earlier this year following technical issues but has since resumed testing in Arizona and Texas. The company has set a goal of delivering 500 million packages per year by 2030.
Zipline and UPS Flight Forward already operate under limited exemptions and are positioned to scale quickly if the rule is finalized. Zipline’s autonomous systems have been used in health care logistics, particularly for transporting blood and vaccines.
Retailers like Starbucks and Walmart may also benefit, especially as they look to expand same-day delivery services. In the public sector, agencies could use drones for emergency response, disaster monitoring and infrastructure inspections, all without the current line-of-sight restrictions.
What comes next in regulation and adoption
The FAA’s proposal stems from the June 2025 executive order “Unleashing American Drone Dominance,” which directed the agency to fast-track drone integration and strengthen domestic manufacturing. The proposed rule is now in the public comment phase, with a final version expected in 2026.
Some limitations remain. The FAA plans to restrict drone operations over large gatherings and will continue assessing risks tied to cybersecurity, airspace congestion and liability. Phase 2 of the BEYOND program, running through 2029, is expected to provide further insights.
Even with these hurdles, the proposed rule signals a new phase in US airspace strategy. If adopted, it will mark a major step toward integrating drones into routine commercial activity.
Sources:
ABC News