Macau, Hengqin to launch cross-border low-altitude test flights

The government is moving forward with its 15th Five-Year Plan agenda by actively exploring cross-border test flights for drones and other low-altitude aircraft between Macau and Hengqin, according to official responses to legislative inquiries published last week.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to position the region within the national strategic emerging industry of the low-altitude economy.

In replies to written questions from legislators Lao Chi Ngai and Kevin Ho, the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Macao (AACM) outlined the government’s roadmap for developing the sector.

The DSEDT confirmed that the consultation document for the plan already includes explicit provisions for “exploring the development of the low-altitude economy.”

The bureau stressed that pilot projects would proceed on a trial basis, strictly adhering to existing regulations and safety standards.

Given the city’s unique geographical constraints and high-density urban environment, the government emphasized a tailored approach.

“The government will adhere to the principle of adapting to local circumstances, closely aligning with practical local application scenarios, and studying and formulating legal and regulatory frameworks that suit Macau’s actual situation,” the DSEDT stated.

The AACM is meanwhile developing technical regulations for low-altitude operations. Officials are studying International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and recommended practices while also referencing regulatory frameworks from neighboring jurisdictions.

The AACM is also formulating safety operation standards and technical specifications for various low-altitude activities, including beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) flights, a critical capability for extended drone operations that would be essential for cross-border routes.

Medical supply transport under review

In a separate inquiry, legislator Ho focused on the potential for cross-border drone transport of medical supplies, an application that has gained traction in other regions. The Health Bureau (SSM) confirmed it is closely monitoring development experiences in neighboring areas and is jointly exploring the feasibility of using drones for medical logistics.

The initiative is intended to expand the diversified application of drones in the public health sector, potentially enabling rapid delivery of critical medical supplies across the Macau-Hengqin border.

Inter-departmental coordination

The AACM noted that a cross-departmental “Low-Altitude Economy Development Working Group” has already been established to coordinate efforts. Its mandate includes advancing collaborative development within the Greater Bay Area (GBA), optimizing approval procedures, strengthening safety supervision, and ensuring privacy protections.

The DSEDT revealed that the government is now actively exploring cross-border test flights for drone transport routes.

These trials are intended to accumulate practical experience for eventual regular operations, while also allowing authorities to strengthen collaborative practices with other GBA cities in areas such as cross-border airspace management, customs inspection protocols, and joint safety oversight.

While no specific timeline for commercial operations was provided, officials indicated that the working group would continue to evaluate outcomes from pilot projects and adjust regulatory frameworks accordingly.