China’s EHang and CAFUC create low-altitude operations research institute

EHang and the Civil Aviation Flight University of China (CAFUC) have established the Low-Altitude Operations Research Institute that will focus on low-altitude operations technology research and professional talent cultivation. Since EHang and the CAFUC entered into a strategic partnership in October 2024, the two parties have deepened their collaboration across multiple areas, including talent development, license training, standards formulation, and the transformation of innovative achievements. The unveiling of the Institute marks a new stage in the strategic partnership between the two parties, fostering more specialised and platform-based collaboration in theoretical research, technological innovation, and practical applications for low-altitude operations. Through the Institute, the two parties will further advance research, technological innovation, practical application, and professional talent cultivation in low-altitude operations, laying a foundation for the commercial operation of pilotless electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The CAFUC, an undergraduate university directly administered by the CAAC and jointly built with the government of Sichuan Province, has deep expertise in civil aviation talent development, airworthiness technology, air traffic management systems, and pilotless aircraft operations. As one of the first universities in China to offer a major in unmanned aircraft systems engineering, the CAFUC was among the first batch of universities in China to be deeply involved in building the license management framework, formulating regulations and standards, and conducting license training practices for civil UAV operators. The establishment of the Institute will further bring together CAFUC’s research resources and EHang’s technology and operational experience, driving systematic research into practical operational challenges and building an evidence base for the refinement of low-altitude regulations. Working together with the CAFUC, EHang will focus on operational standards research, professional talent development, and operational capabilities, transforming its accumulated technological expertise and operational experience into replicable and scalable industry solutions. Through verifiable technological achievements and operational practices, EHang aims to build a foundation for participating in the research and development of industry, national, and international standards, strengthening the contribution of China’s passenger-carrying pilotless aircraft industry to the development of operational systems. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Sally Passey at [email protected]