Some Chicago residents can prepare for their packages to take flight as Amazon recently announced plans to launch its drone delivery services in Chicago’s South suburbs. The new transportation method, known as Prime Air, is expected to kick off in the back half of 2026 and will be serviced from the company's extensive fulfillment centers in the towns of Markham and Matteson, according to NBC Chicago.
Amazon’s drone program first began roughly five years ago and is already deployed in select locations, including College Park Texas, and portions of Arizona.
Once operational, air delivery will be a selectable option for Amazon customers in the applicable areas, who will be able to choose the service. According to a report from CBS News, the price is expected to be $4.99 for Prime members and $9.99 for non-members.
The drones are expected to be able to carry packages up to five pounds in weight and may be able to make deliveries in as little as two hours from purchase. The new Chicago program will begin by servicing households within a seven-and-a-half-mile radius of the Markham and Matteson facilities, with plans to expand further in the future. According to the report, the drones will even offer an option to decide where customers would like their packages dropped, including choices such as the driveway, the front yard, or even the backyard for added protection.
Read more on Chicago Star:
Amazon continues to evaluate operations and protocols as it rolls out its novel transportation system. Prior to the Chicago launch, Amazon trialed extensively in Detroit as a way to stress test its machines in harsher northern climates and more densely populated urban environments, according to the same CBS news report.
Markham and Matteson townships are planning to hold community events to showcase the new technology, address concerns, and answer questions from the populace. The Markham City facility alone created 3,000 new jobs for the town, with the drone program expected to add to that going forward.
(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.