China is gearing up for a new era of urban air mobility by launching pilot programs for electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft in six major cities. Sun Weiguo, an official at the China Air Transport Association, announced the initiative during a forum in Kunshan, Jiangsu Province.
The six cities embracing this futuristic transport mode are Hefei, Hangzhou, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Chengdu, and Chongqing. Local governments in these cities will manage airspace below 600 meters, paving the way for the growth of the low-altitude economy.
Since the concept was highlighted in last year’s Central Economic Work Conference, China’s low-altitude aviation sector has been soaring. The year 2024 is being hailed as the “inaugural year” for the nation’s low-altitude economy.
The recent Airshow China in Zhuhai featured a dedicated pavilion for the low-altitude economy, showcasing cutting-edge advancements in the industry. Song Zhiyong, head of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), emphasized the importance of developing a comprehensive service and security system for low-altitude operations. Plans are underway to enhance airspace management and flight services in collaboration with local governments.
This initiative marks a significant step towards integrating eVTOL technology into urban transportation, potentially revolutionizing how people navigate congested cityscapes.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
