China’s low-altitude economy, comprised of manned or unmanned aviation services at low elevations, has attracted investor interest but lacks clear guidance on its development, according to an industry group. Plans for the sector include small-scale goods deliveries at elevations up to 1,000 metres, with some areas eyeing airspace up to 3,000 metres. As China eases airspace restrictions and offers incentives, manufacturers and transport companies are exploring larger payloads, air taxi services, and a potential 2-trillion-yuan industry by 2030, per the country’s aviation regulator.
The lack of a mature business model for the low-altitude economy has left companies enthusiastic but confused, with the China Low Altitude Economic Alliance working to guide cities in developing commercially viable applications. Focus is on building necessary infrastructure and services while avoiding duplication. Chinese civilian drone makers are testing larger unmanned aircraft for long-distance cargo transport, while manned helicopter services have been launched in Shanghai to cut travel time. In Hubei province, a civilian airship prototype recently flew nearly 1,000 km on a test flight for potential sightseeing tours. The sector is seen as a key driver for economic growth, with vertical mobility seen as a “new productive force” for passenger transport and cargo deliveries. The industry group aims to help companies navigate the evolving landscape of China’s low-altitude economy.
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