Chipotle Launches Drone Delivery Service in Dallas Area

Chipotle Mexican Grill has initiated a drone delivery service in collaboration with Zipline, targeting customers in the Dallas area. The service, named Zipotle, is currently available to a limited number of users, with plans for broader availability in the coming weeks.

The delivery service utilizes Zipline's autonomous aircraft, known as Zips, to transport digital orders directly to customers' homes. The drones are designed to be quiet and have zero emissions. Initially, the service will operate out of the Chipotle location at 3109 Lakeview Parkway in Rowlett, Texas. Deliveries will be available seven days a week from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Central Time, with plans to extend hours to 10 p.m. in the future.

To use the service, customers in the Rowlett area can download the Zipline app from the Apple or Android app stores. Eligible users can place their orders through the app, which are then prepared by Chipotle employees and placed into a Zipping Point. The Zips autonomously collect the orders and deliver them to the specified address. Upon reaching the destination, the aircraft hovers approximately 300 feet above the ground, lowering the order gently to the customer's location.

The service is designed to accommodate orders weighing up to 5.5 pounds, with plans to increase the capacity to 8 pounds. The entire Chipotle menu is available for delivery through Zipotle.