China’s Starts Autonomous Air Taxi Armada Fleet [VIDEO]

China is pioneering the era of urban air mobility with its rapidly expanding fleet of autonomous flying taxis, primarily led by companies like EHang and supported by government initiatives in the “low-altitude economy.”

In cities such as Guangzhou, Hefei, and Shenzhen, the Civil Aviation Administration of China has granted landmark commercial operator certificates, enabling pilotless electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles like the EH216-S to carry passengers for sightseeing, tourism, and emerging urban transport services.

These compact, two-seater aircraft, capable of speeds up to 130 km/h and ranges around 30-35 km, operate without onboard pilots through advanced autonomous systems, with vertiports on rooftops, parks, and designated sites allowing quick vertical takeoffs and landings. This development positions China ahead globally, as fleets begin rolling out for public use, starting with short hops that bypass traffic-clogged roads and offer citizens a futuristic commuting alternative.

As the program scales in 2025-2026, more companies like AutoFlight are introducing larger models, including heavier eVTOLs that could carry up to 10 passengers with extended ranges, aiming to integrate flying taxis into everyday citizen life for everything from airport transfers to intra-city travel.

Government backing, including subsidies, infrastructure builds, and regulatory approvals, is accelerating deployment, with plans for citywide networks transforming congested urban areas. While initial focus remains on tourism and demonstration flights, the vision includes affordable, accessible rides for ordinary citizens, reducing commute times dramatically and contributing to a projected multi-billion-dollar sector that blends clean electric propulsion with smart airspace management for safer, greener transportation.