Drone delivery hits a ground problem

A Fast Company analysis argues that even with FAA approval, drone delivery economics are fragile. McKinsey found a single drone delivery costs $13.50, versus $1.50–2 if one operator manages 20 drones — roughly the cost of a well-run delivery van. Route restrictions and resident complaints could cut a hub's serviceable households by 44%.

• McKinsey: one drone delivery costs $13.50; $1.50–2 with 20 drones per operator
• A 25% cut in effective radius removes about 44% of reachable households
• In Richardson, Texas, residents logged 50+ flights a day at ~170 feet
• Amazon cut flights in College Station and switched to a quieter drone