In a groundbreaking move, China's civil aviation authority has issued the world's first Air Operation Certificate for a remotely operated passenger eVTOL system. Awarded to Guangdong EHang General Aviation and Hefei Heyi Aviation, the certificate officially marks the start of the "passenger era" for the low-altitude economy on the Chinese mainland.
The low-altitude economy leverages innovative technology using drones and electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) for urban transport, sightseeing tours, logistics, and more. The centerpiece EH216-S aircraft, the world's first fully certified passenger-carrying autonomous eVTOL, has already completed over 60,000 safe flights, showcasing its potential for reshaping urban mobility.
With this certification, commercial rollout can begin, allowing passengers to purchase tickets for low-altitude tours and urban commutes at designated operation points in cities such as Guangzhou in Guangdong Province and Hefei in Anhui Province. This milestone not only highlights technological ingenuity but also provides a boost to digital infrastructure and cross-sector collaboration within the aviation industry.
At the 2025 Zhongguancun Forum in Beijing, experts emphasized that future industries like urban air mobility are crucial in global technological competition. Local governments across Beijing, Shanghai, and the Yangtze River Delta region are rapidly implementing strategic initiatives to foster growth in the low-altitude economy, reinforcing the Chinese mainland's commitment to sustainable innovation.
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China issues first Operation Certificate for passenger eVTOLs
cgtn.com
