Low-altitude aircraft trial zone in the works

Ayra Wang

University of Science and Technology plans to build a low-altitude aircraft trial zone in Clear Water Bay, which is set to start the low-altitude economy regulatory sandbox pilot scheme in the first quarter this year.

It has also launched the Low-Altitude Economy Research Centre, which will integrate experts from artificial intelligence, engineering and business fields.

"By harnessing our interdisciplinary strengths in aerospace engineering, AI, big data, robotics and business, we are well equipped to create a comprehensive low-altitude economy ecosystem," said Tim Cheng Kwang-ting, HKUST's vice president for research and development.

The center will focus on four aspects: enhancing the perception, control and safety of drone services, promoting airspace management and route and service planning, establishing data infrastructure and providing advice on policy and regulatory amendments.

"These initiatives will empower the government to create supportive frameworks for innovation and growth, ultimately aligning with the national strategic roadmap," Cheng added.

Dean of engineering Lo Hong-kam said HKUST hopes to foster "public-private-academic collaboration" during the trial run, allowing more stakeholders to participate in the scheme and accelerate the transition of academic findings into practical applications.

Research center director Li Mo said HKUST has proposed to build the sandbox zone in its Clear Water Bay campus and the nearby Port Shelter harbor south of Sai Kung, which covers about 10 square kilometers.

The center plans to trial projects including sea-air coordinated cruises by unmanned airships and boats, low-altitude communications and networks, and noise and safety testing of unmanned aircraft, as well as to study the possibilities of relevant data models.

Li said his team has developed an automated unmanned aerial vehicle-based emergency response service, which allows the delivery of essential medical items via drones.

The service is ready for immediate trials once the proposal is approved by the government. "The sandbox will greatly improve our research and development efficiency as we can pilot larger drones carrying cargo," Li said.