The UK Civil Aviation Authority has given Amazon the all clear to start using drones for deliveries as early as next year.

In order for this innovative option to be possible, regulators in the UK have been authorised to start trials which will allow drones to be flown beyond the line of sight of their operators in rural and suburban areas.

This will see obstacle sensors being tested and operators able to handle more than one drone in flight simultaneously.

Amazon hopes that the successful testing will enable it to deliver packages within 30 minutes, up to the weight of five pounds.

Tim Johnson, policy director of the Civil Aviation Authority, said: "We want to enable the innovation that arises from the development of drone technology by safely integrating drones into the overall aviation system. These tests by Amazon will help inform our policy and future approach."