DoorDash Achieves FAA Certification for Drone Deliveries

Your next DoorDash order might take flight instead of hitting the road. DoorDash has obtained FAA Part 135 air carrier certification, launching its in-house drone delivery service, DoorDash Air. This allows the company to operate commercial drone deliveries in the U.S.

Despite this achievement, drones won’t immediately be buzzing overhead. DoorDash needs additional operational approvals. It hasn’t announced initial markets or a launch date for its custom aircraft.

DoorDash’s Drone Plans

DoorDash intends to use drones for delivering food, medicine, and essentials. Although the FAA certification marks progress, the company still requires approval for airspace operations, particularly for flights beyond visual line of sight. Local regulations will also play a crucial role in where delivery hubs can function.

Motivation Behind Drone Deliveries

Many DoorDash orders travel between three and five miles, often delaying deliveries. Drones could reduce these delays, as they free up human drivers for shorter, more efficient routes. Preliminary data from DoorDash suggests a potential 30% rise in order volume in areas where drones were tested.

Partnerships and Developments

The company plans to build its delivery drones in the U.S., using mostly domestic components. DoorDash will maintain collaborations with partners like Alphabet’s Wing while developing its autonomous delivery drones.

Drone and Dasher Collaboration

Human Dashers will remain essential. Drones will complement them by handling suitable tasks, such as small orders to suburban homes. The system will decide the optimal delivery method based on the order and the recipient’s location.

Limitations and Expectations

The FAA certification doesn’t guarantee immediate, unrestricted drone flights across all locations. Local zoning laws, noise issues, and environmental reviews will shape where and how services expand.

Although DoorDash Air represents a shift toward broader service, its rollout will initially target select areas. Suburban regions may be early adopters due to simpler logistics compared to dense urban areas.

The Impact on Customers

Drone deliveries could mean faster service for urgent needs, like medication. However, availability depends on your address and order size. Costs, fees, and tipping methods for drone deliveries remain undisclosed.

This milestone sets the stage for DoorDash’s expansion into drone deliveries, requiring further testing and approvals before becoming a regular part of your weekly meal orders.