Shanghai to Establish Free-Fly Zones for Drones

Shanghai to permit consumer drones in designated zones covering 46% of the city.

Starting February 1, Shanghai will permit consumer drones to operate in designated free-fly zones, covering 46% of the city, according to SCMP.

The municipal government aims to boost the city’s low-altitude economy. UAVs can be launched without prior application in certain “suitable airspaces,” provided they are registered.

Local authorities have stated that three parks, including the Shanghai Botanical Garden, are within the permitted zones.

In some areas with flight restrictions, drone launches will require approval from local aviation authorities.

Operators can apply online via the Suishenban service. Free-fly and restricted zones are displayed on a map in the app, which serves as a unified online platform for drone registration, flight requests, and site bookings.

The initiative highlights the growth of the local UAV market and related activities. By the end of 2025, Shanghai had registered 220,000 drones and nearly 800 companies engaged in their operation. That same year saw 3.2 million flights recorded.

The low-altitude economy is a new type of economic activity utilizing airspace up to 1,000 meters. It includes drones, electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles like flying taxis, and other apparatuses for various purposes: logistics, tourism, agriculture, emergency services, and urban air mobility.

In early January 2026, Shanghai unveiled a plan to become a global leader in the low-altitude economy. Authorities aim to build an $11.5 billion industry by 2028 and create a national cluster of advanced manufacturing.

Back in July 2025, flying taxi manufacturer Joby Aviation delivered its first aircraft to the UAE and completed pilot testing. The service launch in the region is expected in 2026.