TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Residents and employees of Tinker Air Force Base can now enjoy a wider variety of meal options through delivery with Uber Eats on base.
The service provides Airmen, civilian employees, and their families with access to a diverse selection of nearby restaurants, delivered directly to physical addresses on base.
“We are always looking for ways to improve the quality of life for our Airmen and their families," said Col. Cisco Harris, Tinker installation and 72nd Air Base Wing commander. "Food delivery is a part of living in the digital world. I don't want any of our people to feel like they’re at a disadvantage just because they live inside the gates."
According to 72nd ABW leadership, Uber Eats received a large volume of orders that could not be filled by the existing driver pool; they would like to see more drivers taking advantage of this opportunity.
DIRECTIONS FOR UBER/UBER EATS DRIVERS
Drivers who are interested in expanding their delivery area must have completed an order within the last 30 days. From the Uber – Driver: Drive & Deliver app, navigate to “Work Hub” and select the “Rides at Tinker Air Force Base” opportunity, then complete the opt-in form.
Approved drivers will need to visit the Tinker AFB Pass & ID Office to receive a Defense Biometrics Identification card. Background information collected by Uber will be shared with Tinker AFB to ensure the highest standards of security are maintained. The office is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mon-Fri.
"Security is the highest priority for us here at Tinker,” said Tech. Sgt. Brandon Thompson, non-commissioned officer in-charge, Pass and ID. “We are maintaining compliance with security measures while also boosting morale on base, so it's a win-win. We already have 50 authorized drivers, and the list is growing weekly."
MORE OPTIONS COMING, TIPS FOR CUSTOMER SUCCESS
At this time, Uber and Uber Eats are the only authorized ride-share and food delivery services offered on base except for DoorDash orders from the Exchange Food Court.
“More options are always better,” said Harris. “We are actively talking with other app-based delivery services to see what we can offer while maintaining our rigorous base access standards and keeping our service members safe.”
Delivering to home and work locations on base may present challenges to delivery drivers unfamiliar with the base; company representatives are urging customers to communicate effectively when ordering.
“Please include as much information as you can in your order notes,” said one Uber Eats driver. “If we have questions, we’ll ask you in the app. Respond quickly so you can get your food quickly.”
Residents living in unaccompanied housing may consider delivery to a physical address such as the Vanwey Dining Facility to avoid confusion for drivers.
For more information, please contact Tinker AFB Pass & ID office at (405) 734-5191.