N.J.'s first drone food delivery to be tested by Grubhub, Dexa next week
Eligible customers within a 2.5-mile delivery radius of Wonder in Green Brook can order a drone delivery at no extra cost.
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If you live in Green Brook, your next food order might drop from the sky.
Grubhub announced a test program in partnership with drone delivery service Dexa for customers ordering from Wonder, with service beginning March 18. This will be the first time drone technology has been used for commercial food delivery in the state.
Eligible customers within a 2.5-mile delivery radius of Wonder's Green Brook location can order through the Grubhub app and opt for drone delivery, which should arrive faster than traditional delivery methods and at no additional cost, according to Grubhub.
The three-month test program will test the integration of drone technology within Grubhub's existing marketplace platform. Dexa will use its DE-2020, a fully automated delivery aircraft designed to transport goods directly to customers' homes.
It is one of only four U.S. companies that both manufactures and operates Federal Aviation Administration Part 135 Carrier-certified delivery drones, according to the press release. The company's operations meet all FAA safety requirements, ensuring that every flight is conducted with the highest levels of safety, oversight and compliance.
Before each flight, Dexa's crews will ensure all packages are correctly secured, and during delivery, the drone places orders on the ground using a controlled tether system. Deliveries will follow approved flight paths that the company said are designed to prioritize safety and minimize noise and disruption to surrounding communities.
"Consumers want delivery that's faster and more reliable — and this collaboration shows what's possible when industry innovators come together," said Beth Flippo, chief executive officer of Dexa. "This service is a glimpse into the future of how autonomous technology will help restaurants and retailers serve customers at a completely new level."
Following the test program, Grubhub will evaluate learnings and explore expanding drone delivery to additional nearby restaurant partners.
Grubhub and Dexa will hold a community event Tuesday with drone demonstrations, giving residents a preview of the technology before the program begins.
