What's Happening?
China has enacted a revised aviation law that introduces formal regulations for unmanned aircraft, marking a significant shift in the country's approach to its burgeoning drone and low-altitude economy sectors. The Standing Committee of the National People's
Congress approved these changes under the Civil Aviation Law on December 27, 2025. This new legislation mandates airworthiness certification for drones, addressing a critical regulatory gap. The law, effective from July 1 next year, requires all entities involved in the design, production, import, maintenance, and operation of drones to obtain this certification. Additionally, drone manufacturers must assign a unique product identification code to each unit. The regulations also stipulate that while micro, light, and small civil unmanned aircraft do not require airworthiness certification, medium and large ones must apply to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) for certification.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of these regulations is crucial as China's drone market has rapidly expanded, with oversight previously lagging behind. The new rules aim to prevent incidents such as flight delays caused by illegal drone operations, which have been reported in several cities. This regulatory framework is expected to impact major manufacturers like DJI and EHang, as well as e-commerce and food delivery companies like JD.com and Meituan, which are investing in drone logistics to enhance supply chain efficiency. The low-altitude economy, a national strategic initiative, is projected to grow significantly, reaching over 2 trillion yuan by 2030. By ensuring safety and compliance, these regulations could bolster the sector's growth and integration into broader economic activities.
What's Next?
As the new regulations take effect, companies involved in the drone industry will need to adapt to the certification requirements. This may involve changes in manufacturing processes and increased compliance costs. The CAAC will likely play a pivotal role in overseeing the implementation of these rules and ensuring adherence. The impact on logistics and delivery services could be substantial, with potential improvements in delivery times and efficiency, particularly in rural areas. Stakeholders in the drone industry will need to monitor the regulatory environment closely and adjust their strategies accordingly to remain competitive and compliant.
