Hong Kong should tap tech firms, find drone test sites in ‘low-altitude economy’ push: observers
- Role of private companies highlighted in development of neighbouring Shenzhen’s drone delivery and transport operations
They set out the suggested top priorities on Thursday after a transport official said authorities were exploring the use of drones to deliver goods in the New Territories while also seeking to “remove barriers” to grow the industry.
Eric Yeung Chuen-sing, founder and honorary president of the Smart City Consortium, said a “market-oriented approach” was needed, and authorities should formulate policies to make investment in the sector worthwhile.
He added that private companies had taken the lead in Shenzhen’s development of low-altitude logistics operations, transport and drone delivery.
“The reason for Shenzhen’s success is precisely because it is not the government itself that is taking action, but rather it is facilitating the development of many private companies. The government primarily serves as a guide,” Yeung told a radio programme.
Shenzhen announced last week that it would launch a helicopter service from the Shenzhen North high-speed rail station as part of its goal to build a low-altitude transport network connecting 90 per cent of the Greater Bay Area within an hour.
The service will be operated by Heli-Eastern, a Shenzhen-based pilot firm approved by the Civil Aviation Administration of China.
