Delivery Drones Bring Fast Packages but Loud Neighborhood Noise

Amazon launched package deliveries using its MK30 drones from a distribution hub two miles from a neighborhood in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. While federal rules allow drones to cruise up to 400 feet high, residents reported that the flying robots soon became a frequent, low-altitude presence as they approached delivery drop-offs.

Neighbors such as Blake Fugler reported that the high-pitched drone rotors sounded like a neighbor running a weed whacker for hours every day. Acoustic research shows that drone rotor whine feels more irritating to human ears than the steady rumble of highway cars or passing airplanes. Residents Rick and Marcia LeCompte noticed local wildlife vanished, including hawks that previously nested in their yard, driving the couple to consider moving.