
Lindsey Austen, a Texas resident, captured the moment on video after hearing the drone's loud buzzing. The footage shows the autonomous aircraft hovering over her backyard pool before releasing the package into the water.
The incident occurred the same week Amazon announced plans to expand Prime Air to nearly 500 U.S. cities and towns by the end of 2026, a sixfold increase from its current footprint.
Prime Air currently operates in seven states, including Texas, and holds FAA Part 135 certification. The service uses an onboard Detect-and-Avoid system with cameras and sensors to monitor airspace and make real-time decisions, according to Amazon.
Amazon said the expansion will bring sub-30-minute deliveries of groceries, electronics, and household goods to tens of millions of customers. The company emphasized that safety is a top priority and that the technology is designed to operate responsibly.
While the drone avoided collisions and no one was injured, the pool drop highlights potential operational glitches as Amazon scales up its automated air logistics nationwide.
Other news coverage

NRI Herald • August 22, 2026

NRI Herald • August 22, 2026

NRI Herald • August 22, 2026

NRI Herald • August 22, 2026