Shanghai Opens Drone Free-Flight Zones Covering 46% of the City in 2024

• What Are Shanghai’s New Drone Flight Rules?
• How Does the Suishenban App Simplify Drone Operations?
• Why Is Shanghai Betting Big on the Low-Altitude Economy?
• What Are the Key Challenges for Drone Operators?
• How Does Shanghai Compare to Shenzhen’s Drone Ecosystem?
• What’s Next for China’s Drone Industry?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Shanghai is revolutionizing drone regulations by designating free-flight zones across 46% of the city, effective February 1, 2024. The MOVE aims to boost China’s low-altitude economy, with streamlined registration via a new app and three dedicated training parks. By 2025, the city recorded 220,000 registered drones and 3.2 million flights. Competing with Shenzhen, Shanghai targets an $11.5 billion industry by 2028. Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Shanghai’s New Drone Flight Rules?

Starting February 1, 2024, drone operators in Shanghai can fly in designated areas without prior approval—provided their devices are registered. The policy covers micro, lightweight, and small drones, marking a significant shift toward deregulation. The free-flight zones span 46% of Shanghai’s territory, including the Shanghai Botanical Garden and two other training parks. For restricted areas, operators must submit flight plans through the Suishenban app, which also maps permissible zones. This system centralizes drone registration, flight scheduling, and training reservations, reflecting the city’s push to dominate the low-altitude economy (airspace below 1,000 meters).

How Does the Suishenban App Simplify Drone Operations?

The Suishenban app acts as a one-stop platform for drone enthusiasts. Users can register devices, plan flights, and book training sessions—all while accessing real-time maps of free-flight and restricted zones. Authorities confirmed the app’s rollout during a press conference, noting its role in reducing bureaucratic hurdles. By late 2025, Shanghai had 220,000 registered drones and 800 operating companies, with drones logging 3.2 million flights that year. The app’s integration with municipal systems underscores Shanghai’s tech-forward approach to urban air mobility.

Why Is Shanghai Betting Big on the Low-Altitude Economy?

Shanghai aims to lead the global low-altitude economy, targeting an industry worth $11.5 billion by 2028. The sector includes drones, air taxis, and other aircraft used for deliveries, tourism, and emergency response. This aligns with China’s updated Civil Aviation Law, which mandates real-name drone registration nationwide. Shenzhen—home to DJI, the world’s top consumer drone maker—has similar ambitions, planning to open 75% of its airspace to drones by 2026. The rivalry between these tech hubs is driving rapid innovation, with Shanghai prioritizing infrastructure and practical applications like urban transport.

What Are the Key Challenges for Drone Operators?

Despite relaxed rules, operators must navigate no-fly zones NEAR airports, government buildings, and crowded areas. The Suishenban app flags these restrictions, but violations could still incur penalties. Additionally, drones exceeding weight limits (25 kg for small models) require special permits. Industry analysts, including the BTCC team, note that while Shanghai’s policies are progressive, public safety concerns persist. “The balance between innovation and regulation is delicate,” one expert remarked, citing incidents in other cities where rogue drones disrupted air traffic.

How Does Shanghai Compare to Shenzhen’s Drone Ecosystem?

Shenzhen’s 2026 plan dwarfs Shanghai’s targets, aiming for a $18.3 billion low-altitude economy. The city already hosts DJI’s R&D facilities and has piloted drone delivery networks since 2023. However, Shanghai’s financial muscle and international trade links give it an edge in scaling commercial applications. Both cities benefit from national policies, but Shanghai’s focus on manufacturing clusters could position it as China’s drone export hub. TradingView data shows drone-related stocks in both regions surged after the regulatory updates.

What’s Next for China’s Drone Industry?

With the updated Civil Aviation Law taking effect July 1, 2024, China is standardizing drone regulations nationwide. Temporary 2024 rules already enforce real-name registration, a measure praised for reducing unlicensed flights. Shanghai’s free-flight zones may expand further if the initial phase proves successful. Meanwhile, startups are racing to develop AI-powered traffic management systems—essential for handling the projected 500,000 daily drone flights by 2030. As one industry insider quipped, “The sky’s the limit, literally.”

Frequently Asked Questions

When do Shanghai’s new drone rules start?

The free-flight zones and simplified registration take effect on February 1, 2024.

Do I still need to register my drone in Shanghai?

Yes, all drones must be registered via the Suishenban app using real-name verification, even for free-flight zones.

What happens if I fly a drone in restricted areas?

Unauthorized flights in no-fly zones may result in fines or confiscation of equipment, per China’s Civil Aviation Law.