China's skyward ambitions are getting turbocharged as the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) prioritizes developing its low-altitude economy – a cutting-edge sector covering drone logistics, air taxis, and advanced aviation systems. With urban air mobility projected to become a $1.5 trillion global market by 2035, this strategic move positions China at the forefront of what experts call 'the third dimension of transportation.'
Tech Takes Flight ✈️
AVIC's chief tech expert Xie Wentao reveals to NewspaperAmigo.com that new investments will focus on:
"We're not just building flying cars – we're creating smart ecosystems," Xie explains, comparing the transformation to "Tony Stark meets public transit."
Economic Highs 📈
The plan could:
Create 2M+ new tech jobs by 2030
Reduce urban delivery emissions by 40%
Enable 15-minute medical emergency response nationwide
With major cities like Shenzhen already testing drone delivery networks, 2026 is set to become the Year of Urban Air Mobility across the Chinese mainland.
Sustainability at Altitude 🌱
The FYP emphasizes green aviation tech, requiring all new low-altitude vehicles to meet strict emission standards. This aligns with China's 2060 carbon neutrality goals while addressing urban congestion – a win-win for eco-conscious Gen Z travelers and logistics companies alike.
