Uber Invests in Flytrex to Scale Drone Delivery for Uber Eats

Uber has invested in and partnered with Flytrex to launch drone delivery through Uber Eats. The partnership aims to create a multimodal delivery network that includes sidewalk robots and drones. Flytrex has completed over 200,000 meal deliveries over the past three years and operates in a limited number of U.S. markets. Uber Eats will begin piloting drone delivery in various markets by the end of the year.

Uber Technologies has announced a strategic partnership with Flytrex, an Israeli drone delivery startup, to introduce drone delivery services through Uber Eats. The collaboration marks Uber's first investment in drone technology and a significant step towards integrating autonomous aerial logistics into its multimodal delivery network Uber Eats to launch US drone delivery in partnership with Flytrex^[1].

Flytrex, which has completed over 200,000 meal deliveries across the U.S. since 2013, will leverage its proven drone system to deliver meals to Uber Eats customers. The partnership will see Flytrex's FAA-certified drones integrated with Uber's extensive delivery platform, aiming to reduce delivery times and expand service reach Uber Eats to launch US drone delivery in partnership with Flytrex^[1]Uber Bets On Drones With Flytrex Deal To Speed Up Deliveries And Cut Costs^[2].

The pilot programs for drone delivery are set to commence in select U.S. markets by the end of 2025. These drones, capable of carrying up to 6.6 pounds of payload and flying up to 5 miles round trip, will complement Uber's existing delivery options, including cars, bicycles, and sidewalk robots Uber’s Drone Delivery Takeoff: Inside the High-Flying Deal with Flytrex That Could Drop Uber Eats at Your Door^[3].

The integration of drone technology into Uber's delivery network aligns with the company's long-term goal of creating a flexible, multimodal delivery system that spans multiple modes of transportation. By partnering with Flytrex, Uber aims to enhance its delivery efficiency, reduce congestion, and lower emissions, ultimately providing a faster and more sustainable delivery experience for customers Uber Bets On Drones With Flytrex Deal To Speed Up Deliveries And Cut Costs^[2]Uber’s Drone Delivery Takeoff: Inside the High-Flying Deal with Flytrex That Could Drop Uber Eats at Your Door^[3].

Flytrex's Executive Chairman, Noam Bardin, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating that autonomous drones represent "the future of food delivery — fast, affordable, and hands-free" Uber Eats to launch US drone delivery in partnership with Flytrex^[1]. Sarfraz Maredia, Uber's President of Autonomous Mobility and Delivery, echoed this sentiment, envisioning that the partnership will "reshape how food, convenience items, and other essentials move through cities" Uber’s Drone Delivery Takeoff: Inside the High-Flying Deal with Flytrex That Could Drop Uber Eats at Your Door^[3].

The financial details of the partnership were not disclosed, but the investment underscores Uber's commitment to exploring innovative delivery solutions. As drone technology continues to evolve and regulatory environments become more favorable, Uber's foray into drone delivery could significantly impact the food and convenience delivery market.