Kaihua county in Quzhou, East China's Zhejiang province was recently selected as a provincial pilot region for the development of the low-altitude economy, making it the only area in Quzhou to receive the recognition.

Located in Luofeng village, Huabu town, Kaihua county, the Qianjiangyuan General Aviation Airport is now under full construction. With a total investment of around 860 million yuan ($117.44 million), the project includes the construction of a runway, two taxiways, six fixed-wing and six helicopter parking stands, as well as support facilities.

The airport is designed for emergency rescues, agricultural protection, flight training, and helicopter sightseeing tours. Currently, 80 percent of the project is finished, with full completion targeted for the end of the year.

Kaihua has also developed a low-altitude regulation platform to ensure safe and legal unmanned drone operations.

A bright blue chopper is used for sightseeing in Kaihua county. [Photo/Tide News]

These strategic moves position the county as a leader in the burgeoning low-altitude economy by integrating technology with various sectors.

The county's initiatives include using drones for national park inspections, medical supply deliveries, disaster responses, logistics solutions, and tourism, as well as carrying out training programs, according to Wang Qiang, deputy director of Kaihua's transportation bureau.

Under Kaihua's Low-Altitude Economy High-Quality Development Action Plan (2024-27) released in 2024, the county plans to establish a comprehensive low-altitude economic network by 2027, featuring over 45 facilities and six air routes.