China has taken a major step toward launching a commercial flying taxi industry, with regulators granting the country’s first-ever approvals for two companies to operate autonomous passenger drones. This milestone marks the beginning of a new era in urban air mobility, positioning China at the forefront of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology.
Nasdaq-listed EHang Holdings and Hefei Hey Airlines have received air operator certificates from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), according to state-run news agency Xinhua. This approval allows both companies to operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for commercial passenger services, including urban sightseeing tours.
The certification is a crucial step in integrating flying taxis into China’s transportation ecosystem. EHang Holdings has been a pioneer in the development of autonomous aerial vehicles, with its EH216-S drone already undergoing extensive testing. Hefei Hey Airlines, a newer player, is also expected to contribute to the rapid growth of this sector.
Industry experts believe this approval signals China’s commitment to leading in next-generation air mobility, reducing congestion in megacities, and promoting sustainable aviation solutions. The development also puts China ahead in the race to commercialize flying taxis, as many countries are still in the early stages of regulatory approvals.
Despite this breakthrough, challenges remain, including infrastructure development, public acceptance, and regulatory frameworks for large-scale deployment. However, with government backing and increasing investment, China’s urban air mobility sector is poised for significant expansion in the coming years.
As commercial operations begin, the performance of these autonomous flying taxis will be closely monitored. If successful, this could pave the way for a future where aerial ridesharing becomes a reality in Chinese cities and beyond.