Mid City Times

Fort Worth has become the first major U.S. city to implement a commercial drone delivery network. This development began last June when Walmart initiated small-package drone deliveries from its store on N. Beach St., utilizing services from a company called Wing. The service has since expanded to another Walmart location on Avondale Haslet Road, and Wing also operates a DoorDash-affiliated site on S. Hulen St., offering deliveries of food, household essentials, and over-the-counter medications.

In addition to Wing's operations, Zipline is preparing to enter the Fort Worth drone-delivery market.

Recently, Aviation System Director Roger Venables updated the City Council regarding the City's regulatory authority over drone operators. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) holds exclusive authority over aviation safety and airspace management for drones at low altitudes, similar to its control over manned aircraft at higher altitudes.

The FAA generally restricts drones to operating below 400 feet above ground but has not set a minimum altitude requirement. Consequently, state and local governments have limited regulatory power over drones due to FAA preemption of most regulations.

The FAA enforces strict guidelines for commercial package delivery by drones, including remote pilot certification and adherence to safety protocols.

In Texas, state regulations limit counties, municipalities, and joint boards from implementing ordinances related to drone operations unless specific circumstances arise. Locally, cities can regulate certain aspects such as designated takeoff and landing areas, noise restrictions, and privacy considerations.

As part of Wing's approval process for operations at Walmart locations in Fort Worth, the company had to specify operation sites on their plans and ensure outdoor storage areas were out of street view.

"Photo:Wing created a delivery option that gives people access to fast delivery, takes cars off the road and minimizes environmental impact."