China's New Drone Law Mandates Airworthiness Certification, Reshaping Low-Altitude Economy

The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress in Beijing has formally approved a revised Civil Aviation Law for China. This landmark legislation introduces formal regulation for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. The revision, passed on December 27, addresses a key regulatory gap in the country's rapidly expanding drone sector. The new rules are set to take effect on July 1 next year (July 1, 2026).

The Strategic Low-Altitude Economy

The regulatory overhaul directly supports the growth of China's low-altitude economy. This national strategic initiative focuses on commercial activities below 3,000 meters (9,840 feet). The sector includes everything from drone logistics to passenger-carrying air taxis. Estimates from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Peking University project significant growth. The low-altitude economy is forecast to grow to more than 2 trillion yuan ($280 billion) by 2030. This is a substantial increase from the 1.5 trillion yuan projected for 2025.

Drone logistics supply chain operations have already become a vital part of this economy. Transport ministry data shows 2.7 million packages were delivered by drones throughout 2024. These deliveries ranged from life-saving medicine to food delivery items. E-commerce giants like JD.com and Meituan are heavily invested in this technology. JD Logistics has tested drone networks in provinces like Sichuan and Jiangsu. The company claims drones can reduce shipping times for rural customers by up to 70%.

New Regulatory Framework and Safety Standards

The core of the revised law is the provision for drone airworthiness certification. This new requirement aims to enhance safety and bring order to the skies. Previously, oversight had lagged behind the market's rapid expansion. This led to incidents like illegal drone operations flight delays in several cities, resulting in fines and other penalties.

Key Certification Details

Under the new rules, all entities involved in the drone lifecycle must obtain certification. This includes design, production, import, maintenance, and operation. The CAAC airworthiness certification requirements are tiered based on risk:

• Exemptions: Micro, light, and small civil unmanned aircraft do not require airworthiness certification.
• Mandatory Certification: Medium and large civil unmanned aircraft must apply to the CAAC for airworthiness certification.

Manufacturers must also assign a unique product identification code to each unit. This is in accordance with relevant national regulations. These new standards align with the existing 2024 “interim regulations.” Those rules stipulate that civil unmanned aircraft must be registered under real names.

Impact on Manufacturers and Global Aviation

The tighter requirements will have a direct impact on major industry players. These include DJI, the world's largest consumer drone maker. They also affect EHang, a key producer of EHang passenger drones and eVTOLs. The new law formalizes the safety and operational standards required for advanced air mobility.

For global aviation stakeholders, the move signals China's commitment to high-quality development. By establishing a clear legal framework, the nation is fostering a safer environment for commercial activities below 3,000 meters. This approach mirrors the safety focus of international bodies like the EASA in Europe. The new law provides a stable foundation for the future of unmanned aircraft system regulation and commercialization. It also sets a precedent for other nations developing their own drone ecosystems. The aviation industry worldwide will be watching closely as China implements these rules. For more developments in this area, visit our commercial aviation news section.