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FAA Probes Amazon After Prime Air Drone Clips Internet Cable in Texas

Amazon says the MK30 executed a planned 'safe contingent landing' with no injuries reported.

Overview

  • The FAA confirmed it is investigating a Nov. 18 incident in Waco in which an Amazon MK30 struck an overhead internet line around 12:45 p.m. local time.
  • Video reviewed by news outlets shows a propeller becoming entangled in the cable, the line shearing, the motors shutting down, and the drone descending under control.
  • Amazon reported the event to regulators, said there were no injuries or widespread service outages, and paid to repair the customer's cable.
  • The NTSB said it is aware of the occurrence but will not open an investigation, classifying it as a non-action event.
  • The Waco case follows October collisions involving two MK30s and a crane in Tolleson, Arizona, which remain under federal review as Amazon expands Prime Air service following FAA approvals for MK30 commercial operations.