Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) represents one of the most promising sectors in the low-altitude economy. [Photo/Xinmin Evening News]
Shanghai's Hongqiao International Central Business District is pioneering the development of its low-altitude economy, targeting an industrial cluster worth over 30 billion yuan ($4.2 billion) by 2027.
It is expected to propel Shanghai's ambitious vision of becoming the "city of the sky", local media outlet Xinmin Evening News reported.
The low-altitude economy is centered around manned and unmanned aerial vehicles in sectors such as passenger transport and cargo delivery. Shanghai has introduced a series of polices to accelerate its growth.
Key enterprises like Volant Aviation and GDAT Aviation in the CBD are already making strides. Volant's VE25-100 eVTOL, capable of carrying one pilot and five passengers, has entered the model certification process. The company has secured cooperation agreements worth over 15 billion yuan. GDAT Aviation, with its new Airbus Authorized Service Center, has become a key player in helicopter maintenance and overseas operations.
Hongqiao's integration with major transport hubs in the Yangtze River Delta region enhances its potential for intercity and intracity eVTOL transportation, as it has leveraged its strategic location and transportation advantages across its four geographical zones.
East Hongqiao hosts major aviation institutions and companies, including China Eastern Airlines and Spring Airlines, and South Hongqiao focuses on eVTOL and drone R&D, with firms like Volant Aviation leading the way. West Hongqiao, meanwhile, is home to the Hongqiao Industrial Park for Low-Altitude Economy, featuring UAV research and manufacturing, whereas North Hongqiao emphasizes emergency rescue and short-haul transportation.
Volant Aviation focuses on the research, design, and manufacturing of passenger-grade eVTOL technology. [Photo/Xinmin Evening News]
GDAT Group's Airbus Authorized Service Center. [Photo/Xinmin Evening News]
