A new generation of vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, called "flying cars" in China, is getting closer to the market. We are talking about eVTOL devices with electric motors (designed for vertical takeoffs and landings): engineers want to transition this from "exhibition-based technology" to a real service.
Some manufacturers mention plans to start deliveries based on previous orders as early as 2026, and mass deliveries by the end of 2026.
It's not just about technology, it's about rules too
For such transport, the phrase "fly and land" is not enough - a clear regulation is needed for its safe movement within the city, routes, air corridors, landing sites, and dispatch control. In China, it is said that a large program called "low-altitude economy" has accelerated in this direction: tourism, logistics, rescue services, and later passenger transportation.
At this point, an important aspect is the renewal of legislation. For example, in China, it was reported that amendments were made to the civil aviation law, strengthening the formal regulation of drones and safety requirements, and some of the rules will come into force on July 1, 2026. This serves to systematize the general control of air movement at low altitudes more rigorously.
Which cities can open the way for "flying transport"
There is information in various sources that a number of major Chinese cities are preparing to plan and update the standards of low-altitude air transport infrastructure. In particular, plans were mentioned for the gradual opening of low-altitude airspace in cities such as Shenzhen and the formation of a network of landing and takeoff points.
This means: even if the equipment is ready by 2026, its entry into mass life will be strongly dependent on the city's infrastructure and the "improvement" of regulations.
Why is this a big signal for China?
Analysts see this segment as new evidence of the technological competitiveness of Chinese products: the simultaneous "running" of production, certification, infrastructure, and the market is a large-scale state-scale undertaking. For this reason, some companies started talking about deliveries as early as the second half of 2026.
In the end, one thing is clear: the theme of the "flying car" is no longer fiction, but it is still in the "patience and rules" mode. If the first real deliveries begin by the end of 2026, then the biggest challenge in the next stage will be the transformation into a safe, affordable, and mass service.
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