Shenzhen launches 15-minute helicopter experiences: A new era for low-altitude travel

Aviation enthusiasts can now enjoy 15-minute helicopter experiences in Shenzhen at a cost of nearly 4,000 yuan, as the city aims to pioneer low-altitude economic development. 

Last year, Shenzhen introduced the country’s first “Air-Rail Intermodal Service,” allowing passengers to book “flying taxis” via smartphones. 

This service includes several helicopter routes to popular destinations such as Futian, Yantian, and Dapeng in the Greater Bay Area.

A user on Xiaohongshu, or Rednote, recently shared a video of her sky tour over Yantian, showcasing stunning views of skyscrapers, harbor ports, and mountains. 

She told Sing Tao Daily, a sister publication of The Standard, that her trip was enjoyable but only lasted 8 minutes and was quite noisy, requiring passengers to wear noise-canceling headphones throughout the flight.

Using a government-issued voucher, she paid just 200 yuan for a flight originally priced at 698 yuan, saying,  “The price with the voucher is acceptable; if I spent 698 yuan, it would be too expensive.”

Lui, who planned to visit Shenzhen this month, expressed disappointment after checking the prices. 

“Most services in the city cost several thousand yuan. The Dapeng route is only over 300 yuan, but it’s too far from the downtown area. It feels a bit unworthy to go all the way just for a few minutes.”

Staff for the Futian route said that their flight lasts 15 minutes and costs 3,980 yuan per person, requiring a minimum of five passengers to book. 

It typically takes 2 to 3 days to gather enough passengers for a flight.

Zhang Jin, general manager of the Shenzhen branch of CITIC Offshore Helicopter, believes that leveraging electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft could significantly reduce low-altitude travel costs. 

He estimates operational expenses could drop to one-seventh or one-tenth of current prices as the technology matures.

Marketing director of Shanghai Volant Aerotech, Fu Changyin, said that eVTOL aircraft are considered a key solution for future urban low-altitude transportation, with applications in sightseeing, intercity commuting, emergency rescue, and cargo transport.

Industry insiders analyze that China is at the forefront of global development in eVTOL aircraft, with leading companies expected to obtain airworthiness certificates by 2026 and 2027.

Safety is paramount in developing the low-altitude economy. Renowned economist Pan Helin said that manned aircraft require high technical safety assurance. 

He urged authorities to establish strict safety standards and encouraged companies to enhance their products in preparation for emerging opportunities.

(Cheng Wong)