Wendy’s delivering food by drone for first time

In a groundbreaking move that could redefine fast-food delivery, DoorDash and Alphabet’s Wing have embarked on a unique partnership to deliver Wendy’s meals with drone technology.

This revolutionary service was launched as a pilot program in Christiansburg, Virginia, right next to the college town Blacksburg, home of Virginia Tech, and promises delivery times of under 30 minutes.

“Select local consumers will be able to order eligible menu items from Wendy’s — the pilot’s first restaurant partner — through the DoorDash marketplace and have them delivered via drone,” a DoorDash spokesman told the New York Post.

The arrangement delivers Wendy’s favorites, including the signature Baconator, Frostie, and even chili to be transported at speeds of up to 65 mph directly to customers’ homes. Items will be gently landed on lawns or designated landing areas by Wing’s drones.

The innovative delivery option was introduced Thursday and is accessible to residents living within a 2.5-mile radius of a Wendy’s in Christiansburg. To use the service, customers choose the “deliver by drone” option when placing their orders through DoorDash.

DoorDash has ambitious plans to broaden the scope of this service beyond Christiansburg, aiming to introduce drone deliveries to other U.S. cities before year’s end. The venture not only marks a significant leap in the utilization of unmanned aerial vehicles in commercial settings but also offers a glimpse into the future of food delivery.

“We’re optimistic about the value drone delivery will bring to our platform as we work to offer more efficient, sustainable, and convenient delivery options for consumers,” said Harrison Shih, senior director of DoorDash Labs.