What Happens After a Drone Delivery Is Aborted, and When Can I Expect Another Attempt?
When a drone delivery is aborted due to unforeseen circumstances, such as unsafe weather conditions, obstacles in the landing zone, or technical issues, another delivery attempt of your order is handled by Zipline’s system. Here’s what you need to know about the process and what to expect:
Redelivery Process
Common Reasons for Delivery Failures
Safety System Aborts
Zipline drones are equipped with onboard safety systems that can abort a delivery if they detect potential risks. These risks include:
Obstacles in the landing zone, such as trees, vehicles, or overhead lines.
High winds or adverse weather conditions that make a safe drop impossible.
Technical issues with the drone or delivery mechanism.
When a safety event is detected, the drone will return to the store without completing the delivery.
Environmental Factors
High winds at the delivery location can interfere with the drone’s ability to safely lower the package. In such cases, the drone will abort the delivery and return to the store.
Order Loading Issues
If the store associate fails to load the order onto the drone, the flight will return to the store without delivering.
Retry Scheduling - After an aborted delivery, the order is returned to the store and placed on the next available aircraft. Zipline's system schedules a retry automatically, so you do not need to manually request a redelivery.
System Notifications and Tracking - Once the replacement or retry is scheduled, you’ll be able to track the new delivery attempt through the app. This keeps you informed of the status and allows you to monitor updates.
Timing and Influencing Factors
Expected Timing for Redelivery - While the system typically reattempts the delivery shortly after a failure, no guaranteed ETA can be provided. The timing of the retry largely depends on external factors, such as weather conditions, obstacles in the landing zone (e.g., trees, vehicles, overhead lines), or other safety-related concerns. Redelivery will only occur once circumstances allow for a safe delivery attempt.
Conditions Impacting Delivery - Weather and environmental factors, such as high winds or obstacles in the landing zone, play a significant role in drone operations. Delays may occur if conditions are not suitable for flying. The system prioritizes safety above all, ensuring that your delivery is completed under optimal conditions.
Customer Responsibilities
No Action Required - There’s no need to contact support or take any manual steps to initiate a redelivery. The system handles this automatically.
No Additional Charges - You will not be charged for the redelivery. The retry guarantees that you receive your order without incurring any extra costs.
Clear the Delivery Spot - Ensure the delivery area is free of obstacles such as people, pets, vehicles, umbrellas, lawn furniture, or overhead lines to help the drone complete your delivery safely.
Redelivery attempts apply to both original orders and any replacement orders initiated by Zipline Support. In rare cases where the delivery location remains persistently unsafe (e.g., due to obstacles or high winds), the order may be canceled to ensure safety.
By automating the redelivery process and keeping you informed via the app, Zipline ensures that your order arrives as soon as conditions allow.