On June 5, 2025, Walmart announced the expansion of its drone delivery service to Atlanta, Charlotte, Houston, Orlando, and Tampa, becoming the first retailer to scale drone delivery across five states: Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas. With over 150,000 successful deliveries since 2021, this move highlights Walmart‘s push to revolutionize retail through rapid, tech-driven solutions, offering customers delivery in as little as 30 minutes.
Scaling Drone Operations Nationwide
Walmart’s expanded service, launching at 100 stores, builds on existing operations in Northwest Arkansas and Dallas-Fort Worth. Partnering with Wing, a leading drone provider, Walmart ensures safe and efficient deliveries within a 6-mile (9.6-kilometer) radius from stores, operating under FAA Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) guidelines. This allows drones to fly autonomously, delivering thousands of products, from groceries to health essentials, directly to customers’ doors.
“This is real drone delivery at scale,” said Adam Woodworth, CEO of Wing. “People all around the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex have made drone delivery part of their normal shopping habits over the past year. Now we’re excited to share this ultra-fast delivery experience with millions more people across many more U.S. cities.”
Technology Driving Convenience
Walmart’s drones, operated by Wing, are designed for speed and sustainability. Capable of carrying small packages, they deliver items like fresh fruit, eggs, ice cream, pet food, and urgent care products such as cold medicine or baby formula. The drones’ quiet operation— quieter than a typical delivery truck—enhances community acceptance, as seen in Texas, where Zipline‘s P2 drones recently launched at Walmart stores in Mesquite and Waxahachie.
The expansion leverages advanced automation and navigation systems, ensuring precise deliveries within minutes. This aligns with Walmart’s broader strategy to integrate technology into retail, offering options like Express Delivery (30 minutes), Late-Night Delivery, and InHome Delivery (directly to refrigerators).
Implications for Retail and Communities
Walmart’s drone expansion sets a new benchmark for retail efficiency, challenging competitors to match its speed and scale. For customers, the service offers unmatched convenience, particularly for last-minute needs, with delivery costs expected to remain competitive (though specific pricing wasn’t disclosed). Economically, the program could create jobs in drone maintenance, logistics, and tech support, while reducing road congestion and emissions compared to traditional delivery vans.
Regulatory compliance remains critical. Operating within FAA guidelines, Walmart and Wing prioritize safety, with drones equipped to avoid obstacles and navigate urban environments. As drone delivery grows, further regulatory advancements, such as expanded BVLOS permissions, could unlock even greater potential.
A New Era for Retail Delivery
“As we look ahead, drone delivery will remain a key part of our commitment to redefining retail,” said Greg Cathey, senior vice president of Walmart U.S. Transformation and Innovation. “This expansion of our drone delivery service marks a significant milestone in that journey.”
With this rollout, Walmart is not just delivering packages—it’s reshaping how consumers shop. By bringing drone delivery to millions across five states, the retailer is paving the way for a faster, more flexible future in retail, where convenience is just a flight away.
Customers in Atlanta, Charlotte, Houston, Orlando and Tampa can sign up on Wing’s website to be notified when drone delivery becomes available in their area by visiting wing.com/walmart.
Dallas-Fort Worth customers can check their eligibility for service today at wing.com/dfw.
Photos courtesy of Walmart / Wing
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