Denver announcement comes as Colorado communities consider local rules for drone delivery infrastructure
Wing and Walmart have named the Denver and Seattle metropolitan areas as their next drone delivery markets. The companies plan to launch service in both regions in 2027.
The announcement adds two major markets to an expansion that will bring the companies’ drone delivery service to nearly 20 U.S. metro areas. Wing and Walmart say their existing network provides access to more than three million customers.
The Denver announcement also adds new context to local discussions already underway in Colorado.
As reported last week, Northglenn is considering land-use rules for commercial drone delivery hubs before receiving an application for such a facility. City research found that nearby Thornton had received a pre-application for a drone delivery facility. Longmont had received pre-applications involving two Walmart locations.
Drone Delivery Expands Into New Regions
“Adding new metros to our expansion speaks to how quickly people across the country are adopting drone delivery,” said Heather Rivera, Chief Business Officer at Wing. “We’re excited to serve the needs of busy families in nearly 20 major markets spanning diverse communities and climates by delivering the everyday items these families need fast.”
The two markets will extend operations into different weather conditions. Seattle brings frequent rain, while Denver presents colder temperatures and winter weather.
Wing says its current fleet completes thousands of residential deliveries each day. Its aircraft can travel at speeds up to 60 mph and carry packages weighing up to five pounds.
Customers can order thousands of Walmart products for drone delivery, including groceries, household goods, electronics and over-the-counter medications.
“Expanding drone delivery to Seattle and Denver is about giving more customers a practical option when they need something quickly,” said Greg Cathey, Senior Vice President, eCommerce Transformation, Walmart. “Walmart’s stores put everyday items close to the communities we serve, and Wing helps bring those items to customers’ homes in minutes.”
In the Seattle region, the companies specifically pointed to Federal Way as one community expected to benefit from the service.
“Innovation is a part of our way of life in Federal Way and around the Puget Sound. We look forward to Walmart and Wing’s drone delivery service bringing the region an incredible new convenience,” said Mayor of Federal Way Jim Ferrell. “By bringing advanced delivery solutions to our residents, we are supporting innovation, creating opportunities for future growth, and enhancing convenience for everyday things people need. The future has arrived and its being delivered by Walmart by drone!”
Local Governments Prepare for Drone Delivery
The expansion highlights the role of local governments as commercial drone delivery grows.
The Federal Aviation Administration controls U.S. airspace and aircraft operations. Local governments, however, retain authority over many land-use issues related to ground infrastructure.
Northglenn’s proposed approach focuses on areas such as facility location, operating hours, buffers, noise, screening, parking and security. The city’s analysis also recognizes that restricting a launch site within city limits would not necessarily prevent deliveries from facilities in neighboring communities.
That distinction could become more important as drone delivery networks expand across metropolitan areas.
Wing and Walmart are working toward more than 270 Walmart drone delivery locations nationwide. They expect the network to reach more than 40 million customers.
Once service becomes available, eligible Walmart customers will see drone delivery as an option when ordering online or through the Walmart app. Customers will also be able to order through Wing.
Read more:
- What Can Cities Regulate About Drone Delivery?
- Amazon Prime Air Plans Drone Delivery Expansion to Nearly 500 U.S. Cities and Towns
- What Ordering Walmart by Drone Looks Like as Houston Service Expands
- DoorDash Unveils Purpose-Built Drone and End-to-End Delivery System
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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