Shanghai Expands Drone Freedom: 46% of the City Now Open for Unrestricted Flights
- What Are Shanghai’s New Drone Flight Rules?
- How Big Is Shanghai’s Drone Economy?
- How Does Shanghai Compare to Other Cities?
- What’s Next for Drone Innovation in Shanghai?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Shanghai has taken a bold leap into the future of urban air mobility, designating 46% of its territory as free-flight zones for drones. With streamlined registration via the Suishenban app and a booming low-altitude economy, the city aims to become a global leader in drone technology by 2028. Here’s what you need to know about this groundbreaking move.
What Are Shanghai’s New Drone Flight Rules?
Shanghai’s updated regulations allow consumer drones (micro, lightweight, and small categories) to operate in specified zones without prior documentation—provided they’re registered. Three parks, including the Shanghai Botanical Garden, are now dedicated practice areas. However, flights in certain zones still require aviation authority approval. The Suishenban app simplifies registration, flight planning, and slot bookings, making it a one-stop hub for drone enthusiasts.
How Big Is Shanghai’s Drone Economy?
As of late 2025, Shanghai boasts 220,000 registered drones and nearly 800 operating companies, with 3.2 million flights logged last year. The city’s low-altitude economy—encompassing activities below 1,000 meters (3,280 feet)—includes delivery drones, air taxis, and agricultural UAVs. By 2028, Shanghai targets an industry valuation of 80 billion yuan ($11.5 billion), positioning itself as a national manufacturing hub.
How Does Shanghai Compare to Other Cities?
Shenzhen, home to DJI, is racing ahead with plans to open 75% of its airspace to drones by 2026 and grow its low-altitude economy to 130 billion yuan. Both cities are leveraging local policies and infrastructure investments to dominate this sector. China’s updated Civil Aviation Law, effective July 2024, mandates real-name drone registration nationwide, aligning with these ambitions.
What’s Next for Drone Innovation in Shanghai?
The city’s 2025 action plan emphasizes practical applications like emergency response, urban transport, and tourism. With the Suishenban app’s live maps and real-time updates, Shanghai is setting a benchmark for smart drone governance. As one industry insider quipped, “If drones are the future, Shanghai just wrote the playbook.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I fly drones in Shanghai?
Approximately 46% of Shanghai’s area is now open for unrestricted drone flights, including three designated practice parks. Check the Suishenban app for real-time zone updates.
Do I need to register my drone in Shanghai?
Yes, all drones must be registered under real-name policies. The Suishenban app streamlines this process and provides flight planning tools.
What types of drones are allowed?
Micro, lightweight, and small consumer drones can operate freely in designated zones. Larger or commercial drones may require additional approvals.
