Uber Eats to Launch Drone Delivery Trials, Backed by Flytrex Investment
SAN FRANCISCO, CA – March 14, 2024 – Uber Eats is preparing to take to the skies, announcing plans to trial drone delivery services in select locations, powered by a new investment in drone delivery company Flytrex. The move signals a renewed push into aerial logistics for the food delivery giant, following a previous foray into “flying car” technology.
This partnership aims to drastically reduce delivery times, with Flytrex claiming orders can arrive in “minutes, not hours.” The trials will initially focus on areas where regulations permit and conditions are favorable, offering customers a faster and potentially more cost-effective delivery option. Uber previously attempted to develop flying car technology through a unit it sold to Joby Aviation in 2020, and also invested in that company. Now, Uber has again invested in an aviation partner, providing an undisclosed sum to Flytrex.
Flytrex positions its service as “competitively priced with traditional delivery services,” emphasizing the value proposition of speed and convenience,especially for urgent orders. According to the company’s FAQ,”Many customers find the speed and convenience of drone delivery provides excellent value,especially for urgent orders.”
Though, the service isn’t without limitations. Flytrex acknowledges that weather conditions can ground drones, necessitating backup delivery options. Recent job advertisements for delivery drivers highlight the need for personnel to handle deliveries “when weather permits us from flying the drone.”
The trials represent a meaningful step toward wider adoption of drone delivery,a technology promising to reshape last-mile logistics. Uber Eats’ extensive customer base and Flytrex’s established drone infrastructure coudl accelerate the integration of this technology into everyday life, potentially impacting delivery drivers, restaurants, and consumers alike. The initial trial locations and rollout timeline have not yet been disclosed.
