Drone Delivery Takes Off in Atlanta: DoorDash and Wing Expand Partnership

Residents in parts of metro Atlanta can now have restaurant meals flown directly to their doorstep. DoorDash and Wing, the drone delivery company owned by Alphabet, are expanding their existing collaboration to include the Atlanta area. This move marks Wing's latest step in building a national delivery network, following its work with DoorDash in several states and a separate, growing partnership with Walmart.

For customers near the Tanger Outlets in Locust Grove, the service promises arrival times around 20 minutes. Initial restaurant partners include Molinos Mexican Grill, Koji Japanese Steakhouse, and Sabrosos Mexican Restaurant. Not every order will qualify; restrictions based on distance, package size, and weight apply. Wing provides an online tool where potential customers can enter an address to check eligibility and sign up for notifications if service expands to their neighborhood.

The Atlanta launch reflects a broader strategic push by both companies into automated logistics. DoorDash has tested various robotic systems, including its own 'Dot' rover and partnerships with firms like Coco Robotics in major cities. Wing, meanwhile, has steadily increased its operational capacity. A redesigned drone introduced this year can handle payloads of up to five pounds, making it practical for a wider variety of food and retail deliveries. This technical upgrade is directly enabling the current wave of commercial agreements.

Source: Engadget