Last May, Florida took a leap forward in embracing the future of drone technology with the signing of SB 1068 into law by Governor Ron DeSantis.
The new legislation, aimed at boosting the commercial drone sector, was unanimously supported by both houses, and Florida some Florida businesses wasted no time in taking advantage of it.
Easing Restrictions, Enhancing Opportunities
SB 1068, primarily sponsored by Senators Jay Collins and Jim Boyd, along with its House companion, HB 1071, led by Representatives Wyman Duggan and Spencer Roach, focused on relaxing restrictions surrounding delivery drones. This opens up numerous opportunities for communities, organizations, and businesses across Florida to leverage the diverse benefits of drone technology.
Drone Ports and the Promise of Improved Services
One of the critical aspects of this legislation is the facilitation of drone port construction throughout Florida. Senator Collins highlighted the state’s recognition of the immense potential benefits of drone deliveries for its citizens. He emphasized that retailers and companies in Florida are already integrating this groundbreaking technology, which is poised to play a crucial role in enhancing customer satisfaction and streamlining last-mile delivery solutions.
Florida’s Pro-Business Stance and Drone Technology
Representative Duggan pointed out that this legislative development further cements Florida’s status as a forward-thinking and pro-business state. By creating a regulatory environment conducive to safe and efficient drone operations, the state is affirming its commitment to maintaining a business-friendly climate.
Expanding Drone Services
Virginia Beach based DroneUp has already partnered with Walmart and Chick-Fil-A, among other businesses to provide drone delivery service to some Florida residents. FMN recently reported on Chick-Fil-A’s first drone service launching in Brandon, Florida.
On an even bigger scale, Volocopter, a German firm, recently demonstrated an electric air taxi at Tampa International Airport. While not yet truly a drone, the company expects it’s air taxi to become fully autonomous in a few years.
Drone Delivery in Action: Walmart and Florida Communities
Undoubtedly, the largest of US companies to offer drone delivery is Walmart. Walmart, in partnership with DroneUp, currently offers drone delivery services in Florida, along with five other states. Residents near participating stores can order a wide range of eligible items, including fragile products, for drone delivery. The service operates between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. local time and promises delivery within 30 minutes for items weighing up to ten pounds.
Through a partnership with DroneUp, Walmart today offers drone delivery in Florida, along with five other states. Florida residents living in proximity of a participating store can place orders through www.droneupdelivery.com between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. local time. Drone delivery is currently offered from these stores in Florida:
- Walmart Supercenter #2695
1450 Johns Lake Rd, Clermont, FL 34711 - Walmart Supercenter #5299
550 Us Highway 27, Clermont, FL 34714 - Walmart Supercenter #994
8745 State Road 54, New Port Richey, FL 34655 - Walmart Supercenter #941
2140 Bloomingdale Avenue, Valrico, FL 33596 - Walmart Supercenter #3347
7450 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven, FL 33884 - Walmart Supercenter #2740
19910 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL 33647 - Walmart Supercenter #3463
1208 E Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511 - Walmart Store #925
11720 E Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Seffner, FL - Walmart Store #5622
10863 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview, FL
Drones can deliver more than 15,000 eligible Walmart items up to ten pounds, including fragile items like eggs, in as little as 30 minutes.
Drone Industry Bringing Jobs
Florida’s drone-friendly business environment will undoubtedly see drone use ramp up, with the industry bringing more jobs to the state. DroneUp is currently hiring drone pilots and ground support personnel in Florida and several other US states, with starting pay for a pilot in Florida ranging between $24-$29 dollars per hour.
