eVTOL in China
China is the global leader in commercial eVTOL operations, with EHang receiving the world's first type certificate for a passenger-carrying eVTOL (EH216-S) from the CAAC and full commercial pilot operation approval. AutoFlight has conducted cross-city demonstration flights, and China's aggressive 'low-altitude economy' policy is driving rapid infrastructure development. With over $2 billion in government and private investment, multiple certified aircraft, and active commercial operations, China has moved from development to deployment faster than any other country.
China eVTOL Industry Overview
Key metrics on the electric aircraft industry and market development in China.
Manufacturers
Aircraft Models
Active Cities
First Commercial
Regulator
Certification & Regulatory Framework
How the CAAC is approaching eVTOL certification in China.
Certification Progress
75%Certification Approach
The CAAC has pioneered eVTOL certification globally, issuing the world's first type certificate for a passenger eVTOL (EHang EH216-S) in October 2023, followed by commercial pilot operation approval. CAAC's approach is pragmatic and accelerated, with dedicated regulations for 'low-altitude economy' aircraft covering airworthiness, operations, and airspace management. The regulatory framework enables commercial operations to proceed alongside continued development.
Key Manufacturers & Aircraft
eVTOL companies and aircraft models active in China.
EHang
Guangzhou-based company that received the world's first eVTOL type certificate from CAAC for the EH216-S autonomous aerial vehicle. Operating commercially in China and expanding globally. Pioneer in autonomous passenger-carrying eVTOL operations.
View All eVTOL CompaniesAutoFlight
Shanghai-based manufacturer developing the Prosperity I eVTOL for urban and regional air mobility. Has conducted 250km cross-city demonstration flights and is pursuing both CAAC and EASA certification.
View All eVTOL CompaniesLilium (China JV)
German manufacturer Lilium has established partnerships in China for the Lilium Jet, targeting the Chinese regional air mobility market through CAAC certification.
View All eVTOL CompaniesAircraft Models Under Certification
Government Support & Investment
How China is funding and supporting eVTOL industry development.
Government Policy
China's government has made eVTOL a national strategic priority through the 'low-altitude economy' policy, with over $2 billion in combined government and provincial funding. Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Shanghai have all published dedicated low-altitude economy development plans. The central government's 14th Five-Year Plan includes provisions for advanced air mobility, and local governments are building vertiport infrastructure and designated flight corridors at unprecedented speed.
Market Projection
China's eVTOL market is projected to reach ¥200-400 billion ($28-56 billion) annually by 2035, making it the world's largest market. Morgan Stanley estimates China's low-altitude economy could reach $1.5 trillion by 2040, driven by tourism, urban transport, logistics, and emergency services. Shenzhen alone targets 10,000+ daily low-altitude flights by 2030.
Cities with eVTOL Activity
2 cities in China are developing eVTOL infrastructure and operations.
Looking for air taxi booking info? See Air Taxi in China →
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the eVTOL industry in China.
Is EHang already flying passengers in China?
Yes, EHang received the world's first type certificate for a passenger-carrying eVTOL (EH216-S) from the CAAC in October 2023 and subsequently received commercial pilot operation approval. EHang is conducting commercial passenger flights in several Chinese cities including Guangzhou and Shenzhen.
What is China's 'low-altitude economy' policy?
China's 'low-altitude economy' policy is a national strategic initiative that promotes the development of commercial operations below 1,000 meters altitude, including eVTOL, cargo drones, and aerial tourism. Multiple cities have published dedicated development plans with billions in infrastructure investment.
How much has China invested in eVTOL?
China has invested over $2 billion in combined government and private funding for eVTOL development. Provincial and city governments in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and others have dedicated budgets for low-altitude economy infrastructure including vertiports, flight corridors, and traffic management systems.
What eVTOL aircraft are certified in China?
The EHang EH216-S autonomous aerial vehicle received the world's first eVTOL type certificate from the CAAC in October 2023. AutoFlight's Prosperity I is pursuing CAAC certification, and several other Chinese manufacturers are in the certification pipeline.
How large is China's eVTOL market?
China's eVTOL market is projected to reach ¥200-400 billion ($28-56 billion) annually by 2035, the world's largest. Morgan Stanley estimates the broader low-altitude economy could reach $1.5 trillion by 2040. Shenzhen alone targets 10,000+ daily low-altitude flights by 2030.
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