China's low-altitude economy is taking off with impressive speed. The Civil Aviation Administration of China estimates that the country's low-altitude market will soar from 500 billion yuan in 2023 to 1.5 trillion yuan in 2025 and as much as 3.5 trillion yuan in 2035.

　　This year, for the first time, the term “low-altitude economy“ was included in the Chinese government's work report, signifying an official endorsement that has emboldened numerous cities.

　　China will develop general aviation and low-altitude economy, according to the resolution adopted during the third plenum of the 20th Communist Party of China Central Committee in July.

　　Meanwhile, Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Suzhou and dozens of other cities have announced supportive policies to develop the low-altitude economy.

　　Suzhou, along with five other Chinese cities, is poised to pilot flight services of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft -- vehicles that can ascend and descend vertically like helicopters without the need for runways.

　　Such trials, involving designated air routes and corridors, are seen as crucial for the future standardization of low-altitude aviation. Local governments will be granted control over airspace below 600 meters, shifting more regulatory responsibilities to the local authorities.

　　Suzhou has forged a robust industrial ecosystem for the low-altitude economy encompassing research and development, manufacturing and application. This year, the city has inked over 300 relevant projects with a total investment of over 90 billion yuan.

　　In the neighboring city of Wuxi, a two-seater light sport aircraft developed by the Hungarian firm Magnus has recently taken to the skies. With a range of approximately 1,600 km on a full tank and a top speed of 256 km/h, it offers exciting new possibilities for aerial tours, emergency rescue and pilot training.