UPS to Launch Drone Delivery Service
UPS is setting up a new subsidiary, UPS Flight Forward, and has applied to FAA for full drone delivery certification to expand its U.S. delivery services.
UPS has applied for full drone delivery certification to expand its U.S. delivery services.
Photo via UPS.
UPS announced that it has established a new drone subsidiary, UPS Flight Forward, Inc. The drone operation will be used to target markets faster and intends to remain at the forefront of drone commercial aviation.
The package-delivery giant said it has applied to the Federal Aviation Administration for full drone delivery certification to expand its U.S. delivery services
The certification, when granted, will allow application for FAA-approved flight operations beyond line of sight, at night, and with an unlimited number of drones and operators in command.
UPS and its partner, Matternet, currently operate special drone healthcare deliveries of medical samples under FAA Part 107 rules at WakeMed hospitals in Raleigh, N.C. Part 135 certification will pave the way for service expansions to several other U.S. healthcare networks that have expressed interest in similar services.
More Fleet Forward
Earley, Mossing Named to NAFA's 2026 Class of Fellows
The honor recognizes five outstanding professionals whose leadership, service and contributions have made a significant impact on NAFA and the fleet management profession.
Read More →
Fleet Forward Conference Adds IIHS Crash Test Experience for 2026 Attendees
Attendees will witness a live crash test, tour the IIHS Vehicle Research Center, and experience advanced crash-avoidance technologies firsthand.
Read More →
Cameras, Safety and Insurance: From Reactive Claims to Real-time Prevention
Commercial auto remains one of the most challenging and costly lines of coverage for fleet operators and insurers alike. Learn more about how to effectively address these issues from Onur Aksan, Enterprise Business Development Executive, Geotab.
Read More →
Matt Dyer to Deliver Closing Keynote at Fleet Forward Conference
The Merchants Fleet CEO will discuss the changing expectations and strategic role of today’s fleet leaders.
Read More →
IIHS Brings Commercial Vehicle Safety Analysis to 2026 Fleet Forward Conference Stage
IIHS President David Harkey will share early findings from new testing of delivery vans, pickups, and work trucks — and what the data means for fleet safety decisions.
Read More →
Fleet Manager or Data Strategist? You’re Both
The job hasn’t changed, but the expectations have. Do you have a plan on how to use AI to thrive?
Read More →
Nominations Are Open for the 2026 Awards!
The Hall of Fame, Visionary, and Fleet Manager of the Year award nominations are officially live. Don't miss your chance to recognize someone deserving.
Read More →
Fleet Manager of the Year Winners Over the Years
The Edward J. Bobit Fleet Manager of the Year award honors commercial fleet managers whose leadership, innovation, and business acumen have advanced the profession.
Read More →
Vehicle Management Systems Introduces Virtual Fleet Manager
VMS recently launched an AI-first fleet platform that streamlines system design, organizes data, and supports decision-making.
Read More →
LightMetrics Launches Cloud AI Layer to Reduce False Driver Safety Alerts
New FP platform filters dashcam alerts before they reach fleet managers, aiming to cut false positives, improve trust, and streamline safety coaching.
Read More →