FedEx: Successful drone delivery

Wing Aviation's drone has successfully completed a FedEx commercial residential delivery in Christiansburg, Virginia.

The commercial residential drone delivery trial was launched by FedEx Express in collaboration with Wing Aviation, who has received its first authorisation from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct further scheduled commercial deliveries following the successful launch. 

As the trial continues FedEx packages will be sent to qualifying homes in Christiansburg to demonstrate the benefits of drones for last-mile delivery.

“Innovation has been part of the FedEx DNA since day one, and we are always looking for new and better ways to deliver the world to our customers’ doorsteps,” said Don Colleran, President & CEO of FedEx Express. “For our customers in Christiansburg, this collaboration will test the latest innovation in the last mile of a residential package delivery. We hope that this latest addition to our delivery options will enhance the last mile service for urgent same-day deliveries, customers in rural or semi-rural areas, and other exceptional delivery needs.”

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Those currently eligible within Christiansburg, Virginia who have opt-in to the trial, will be able to receive their packages via the scheduled drones, as well as health and wellness products placed through Wing Aviation's delivery app, a result of the company's collaboration with Walgreens. 

In addition to demonstrating the benefits of drone deliveries, FedEx is participating in, the US Department of Transportation’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integrations Pilot Program (IPP) alongside Memphis Shelby-County Airport Authority. As part of FedEx’s participation the company will conduct drone operations on airport property generating data to help inform future UAS policymaking.

Did you know? FedEx Express’s FY19 annual revenue was US$37.3bn.

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Image source: FedEx