Hong Kong could welcome passenger-carrying drones as early as 2027, marking a major step in the city’s push to lead Asia’s emerging low-altitude economy. The city has already tested drones for medical and food deliveries, but officials say far more ambitious plans are now taking shape.

Speaking at recent industry forums, transport chief Mable Chan said Hong Kong aims to secure “prime positioning” in unmanned aviation, while Civil Aviation deputy director general Dominic Chow outlined a two-to-three-year timeline for trial operations. These efforts fall under the newly launched Regulatory Sandbox X, which allows heavier unmanned aircraft, including eVTOLs, to be tested along controlled routes.

Passenger drones are expected to cost “just a fraction” of helicopter services, driven by simpler maintenance and more efficient energy use. With growing global competition and strong links to the Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong is well placed to turn advanced air mobility into new opportunities across transport, logistics and urban innovation.