Deliveroo Takes Flight - Drone Delivery Trial Launches in Dublin
Posted by Emma on 7th Jun 2025 Reading Time:
Deliveroo has officially launched its first drone food delivery service in Dublin, marking a bold step in its efforts to reshape the future of food logistics. Partnering with drone delivery operator Manna, the initiative is currently being piloted in Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, offering customers in the area ultra-fast food deliveries from a growing number of local restaurants.
This cutting-edge service allows customers within a 3km radius to order from eateries including Musashi, WOWBurger, Boojum, and Elephant & Castle, with deliveries reportedly arriving in as little as three minutes. Each drone travels at speeds up to 80 km/h and lowers food gently to the ground using a biodegradable tether. Orders are tracked via the Deliveroo app in the usual way, with customers receiving notifications when their order is on approach.
The drones are launched and monitored from Manna’s local hub and are each supervised throughout their flight by a dedicated dispatcher. Safety is central to the project, with features such as backup systems and parachutes included in every drone.
The trial is intended to explore how drone deliveries could extend Deliveroo’s reach, particularly in suburban and less accessible areas where traditional road delivery can be slower or less cost-effective. If successful, the company plans to expand the service to include additional restaurants, as well as groceries and retail items, over the next six months.
Carlo Mocci, Chief Business Officer at Deliveroo, said:
“Our mission is to bring local neighbourhood favourites to as many people’s doors as possible, and constantly raise the bar on the experience and service we provide. We’re excited to explore how drones can help us reach new customers, complementing our existing rider model.”
Bobby Healy, CEO and Founder of Manna Air Delivery, added:
“Air delivery is fast, clean and safe, offering a new avenue for local businesses to reach more consumers. We’re proud to partner with Deliveroo to bring this experience to life in Ireland.”
Local restaurant owners have responded positively to the initiative. Bill Lang, owner of Musashi, commented:
“We’ve been serving authentic sushi for years but never thought we’d see it delivered by drone. This partnership allows us to bring fresh sushi to more customers faster than ever.”
Manna, which has completed over 170,000 drone flights in Dublin 15 and holds full regulatory approval, views the partnership as a milestone in commercial drone delivery. Deliveroo, which operates across nine countries, hopes to roll out similar services in other markets, pending regulatory developments.
This launch comes at a time of significant transformation for the company. Just last month, it was announced that Deliveroo will be acquired by US food delivery giant DoorDash in a deal worth £2.9 billion. The addition of drone logistics further underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and adaptation in a rapidly evolving sector.