Grubhub and drone operator Dexa have launched what they describe as New Jersey’s first commercial drone-powered food delivery program. The three-month pilot, based at Wonder’s Green Brook location, begins March 18 and will test aerial delivery integration within Grubhub’s existing marketplace platform.
Highlights
- First commercial drone food delivery in New Jersey: Eligible customers within a 2.5-mile radius of Wonder’s Green Brook location can opt for drone delivery through the Grubhub app at no additional cost beyond standard fees.
- FAA Part 135-certified operations: Dexa is one of only four U.S. companies that both manufactures and operates FAA Part 135 Air Carrier-certified delivery drones.
- Multi-restaurant access: Wonder’s model offers 15 restaurant concepts prepared in a single location, enabling varied menu options per drone delivery.
- Evaluation period: Grubhub will assess results after three months and explore expanding drone delivery to additional restaurant partners.
How the Program Works
Customers ordering from Wonder’s Green Brook location through the Grubhub app can select drone delivery as an option. Grubhub said deliveries should arrive faster than traditional methods.
Dexa’s DE-2020 is a fully automated delivery aircraft. Before each flight, trained flight crews verify packaging and food-safety compliance. The drone places orders on the ground using a controlled tether system and follows approved flight paths designed to minimize noise and community disruption.
Delivery Tracking and Customer Experience
Order tracking, customer communication, and support are managed through the Grubhub platform. Diners and staff can access real-time GPS tracking, estimated arrival notifications, and order confirmations.
“Our partnership with Dexa represents a major step forward in Grubhub’s commitment to delivery innovation,” said Abhishek “PJ” Poykayil, SVP of Customer Delivery Operations at Wonder and Grubhub. “By connecting Grubhub’s marketplace expertise, Wonder’s innovative mealtime platform, and Dexa’s expansive drone technology, we’re proud to introduce a faster and more efficient way for New Jersey diners to experience food delivery without compromising safety or reliability.”
Dexa’s Autonomous Technology
Dexa’s DE-2020 uses advanced autonomy and secure communications technology. The company holds FAA Part 135 Air Carrier certification, placing it among a small group of U.S. firms authorized to both build and operate commercial delivery drones.
“Consumers want delivery that’s faster and more reliable — and this collaboration shows what’s possible when industry innovators come together,” said Beth Flippo, CEO 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.”
Community Launch Event
Grubhub and Dexa will host a community demonstration event on March 16, with drone demos at 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. ET. A rain date is set for March 17 at the same times. The operational program begins March 18.
The pilot follows Grubhub’s broader push into autonomous delivery, which includes several existing robot and autonomous vehicle delivery partnerships across the country.
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