Progress on air taxis in HK, Western Rail Link

Ayra Wang

Air taxis may be deployed in the second phase of the city's low-altitude economy regulatory sandbox pilot scheme, says Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan.

Her remarks came following the launch of the first phase of the city's drone trials, with plans to test over 30 projects in the next six months, including food delivery, document transport and medical supply distribution.

Chan said the trials will initially focus on areas including Science Park and Cyberport but could expand to the Northern Metropolis and outlying islands. The later phases may include potential tests for passenger-carrying drones, she said.

"Urban areas are densely populated with high-rise buildings, making it challenging to find suitable takeoff and landing points. We also need to consider the efficiency of existing public transport and logistics services," Chan said.

"But this doesn't mean these activities can't form an economic ecosystem. Time is money, and if drone services improve efficiency, they'll bring value to society, drive research, and create business opportunities."

Chan revealed that authorities are drafting amendments to subsidiary legislation to allow the Civil Aviation Department to approve trial flights of passenger-carrying drones under safe conditions.

To address safety and privacy concerns, proposed regulatory changes, expected this quarter, will increase drone weight limits and require operators of heavier drones to purchase insurance.

Chan said drones will also be equipped with backup propellers and built-in positioning systems for better control.

On cross-border initiatives, Chan said discussions with mainland authorities have begun, with positive feedback, though customs clearance remains a challenge.

Separately, Chan said the government aims to collect expressions of interest on the construction of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link and explore innovative ways to accelerate construction with Shenzhen authorities.

The project, which will connect Hung Shui Kiu to Qianhai in Shenzhen, will include a new Shenzhen Bay Station, Chan said.

"We hope to adopt an innovative approach with Shenzhen to advance the project, such as having Hong Kong and Shenzhen carry out construction simultaneously, which will help save time," Chan said, revealing that a task office has been established to oversee cross-border rail projects and explore collaboration, including entrusting Shenzhen contractors with tunneling work in Hong Kong. She also said the SAR will explore possibilities of joint operations with Shenzhen, including having a single operator handle the design, construction and operation of the rail link.

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com