Low-Altitude Economy (LAE)
A China-originated concept, now a national pillar industry. LAE refers to the comprehensive economic system built on low-altitude airspace — generally below 3,000 m, with a focus on airspace under 1,000 m — powered by manned and unmanned aircraft and radiating across manufacturing, operations, infrastructure and services.
Policy Trajectory
Named a "new growth engine" in 2024, an "emerging industry" in 2025, and an "emerging pillar industry" in 2026 — LAE has been written into China's Government Work Report for three consecutive years and is addressed in the 15th Five-Year Plan. The revised Civil Aviation Law of the PRC, effective 1 July 2026, adds a dedicated chapter on "development promotion" for the sector.
Governance
A national governance structure has taken shape: the Low-Altitude Economy Development Department under the NDRC, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) for operations, and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology for manufacturing.
Global Position
China is the only country running paid passenger eVTOL services, with the world's first eVTOL type certificate issued by CAAC. Chinese unmanned aircraft exports reached 4.95 million units in 2025. As of September 2026, no eVTOL manufacturer holds a full FAA or EASA type certificate.