China has taken a significant step in advanced aviation by granting commercial operating licenses to two domestic companies for autonomous passenger drones, according to announcements linked to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).
The approval allows the companies to operate pilotless aerial vehicles designed to transport passengers, under regulated commercial conditions.
Regulatory Approval by CAAC
The licenses were issued by the CAAC after evaluating safety standards, flight control systems, and operational readiness. This marks the first time China has formally authorised autonomous aerial vehicles for commercial passenger use.
Aviation authorities clarified that the approval applies to defined routes, altitude limits, and controlled operating environments, rather than unrestricted public airspace use.
What Are Autonomous Passenger Drones?
Autonomous passenger drones, often referred to as flying taxis, are electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft capable of carrying human passengers without an onboard pilot.
These vehicles rely on automated navigation systems, sensors, and ground-based monitoring to conduct short-distance flights, primarily in urban or peri-urban areas.
China’s Position in Advanced Air Mobility
China has been investing heavily in advanced air mobility technologies, including unmanned aerial systems and electric aviation. Regulatory clearance for passenger drones positions the country ahead of many global aviation authorities that are still conducting pilot programmes.
Officials note that the move aligns with China’s broader strategy to develop low-altitude economy sectors, including logistics, surveillance, and urban air transport.
China has officially launched the era of flying taxis for the world.
— China pulse 🇨🇳 (@Eng_china5) February 2, 2026
Two Chinese companies have received commercial operating licenses for autonomous passenger drones from the Civil Aviation Administration of China. pic.twitter.com/lYQOWuzEdS
Operational Scope and Limitations
Aviation experts caution that while the licenses represent a regulatory breakthrough, large-scale public adoption will depend on infrastructure readiness, air traffic coordination, and public acceptance.
Initial operations are expected to focus on controlled demonstration routes, tourism zones, or fixed-point travel rather than dense urban commuting.
Global Context
Several countries, including the United States and members of the European Union, are conducting trials of eVTOL aircraft. However, most regulators have not yet granted full commercial approval for autonomous passenger operations.
China’s decision could influence regulatory discussions in other regions as authorities evaluate safety benchmarks and operational models.
What Comes Next
The CAAC is expected to continue monitoring flight performance, safety data, and operational compliance before expanding approvals to additional operators or regions.
Further announcements regarding route deployment and passenger access are anticipated in the coming months.
