EHang and Guizhou Partner for Autonomous Aerial Tourism Expansion

Introduction: The Rise of Low-Altitude Tourism in China

Urban Air Mobility (UAM) is no longer a futuristic concept, it is becoming a reality, especially in China. With rapid advancements in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technologies, cities and provinces are now exploring new ways to integrate aerial transport into their tourism and economic ecosystems. A recent milestone in this journey is EHang Holdings Limited’s announcement of a significant purchase order from Guizhou Scenic Tourism Development Co., Ltd. for 50 units of its EH216-S pilotless eVTOL aircraft.

This development is more than a business transaction, it’s a strategic move that aligns with Guizhou province’s broader vision to become a leader in low-altitude economic development. The collaboration between EHang, Guizhou Tourism Group, and the Anshun city government underscores the growing importance of integrating advanced technology with regional tourism strategies. It also highlights China’s commitment to developing a modern, intelligent, and sustainable low-altitude economy.

Guizhou’s Strategic Push into Low-Altitude Economy

Policy and Infrastructure Support

Guizhou province has identified the low-altitude economy as a key strategic industry. This is clearly reflected in its 2025 Provincial Government Work Report and the draft Three-Year Action Plan for the High-Quality Development of the Low-Altitude Economy (2025–2027). These documents outline a focused initiative to develop tourism, logistics, and emergency response applications through aerial mobility.

At the center of this development is Anshun city, which has been designated as a demonstration zone for low-altitude economic growth. With a mature aerospace supply chain, robust infrastructure, and supportive policies, Anshun is well-positioned to become a hub for eVTOL innovation. The city’s local government, led by Mayor Yin Hengbin and Secretary Changpeng Yang, has expressed strong support for these initiatives, aiming to build a globally competitive low-altitude industrial cluster.

Through its collaboration with EHang, the city plans to leverage its existing strengths to create a flagship model of technology-enabled cultural tourism. This includes not only deploying aircraft for tourism but also fostering research and development, component manufacturing, and operational testing within the region.

“We hope Anshun and EHang will seize this strategic opportunity, deepen their collaboration, and work together to build a thriving low-altitude industrial cluster.” , Changpeng Yang, Secretary of Anshun City

Tourism Meets Technology: A New Era for Scenic Flights

The 50 EH216-S aircraft ordered by Guizhou Scenic Tourism Development Co., Ltd. are set to be deployed across several iconic tourist destinations in Guizhou. These include the Jiabang Rice Terraces in Congjiang, Basha Miao Village, and Yunfeng Tunpu in Anshun. The aim is to offer low-altitude sightseeing experiences that are both immersive and sustainable.

The EH216-S is a fully autonomous, electric-powered aircraft designed for short-distance urban travel. With the ability to carry two passengers, it provides a unique aerial perspective of scenic landscapes without the need for a pilot. This not only enhances the tourist experience but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional helicopter tours.

According to Yusheng Meng, Deputy General Manager of Guizhou Tourism Group, the introduction of the EH216-S adds a new dimension to the province’s tourism offerings. It reflects the Group’s commitment to innovation and aligns with its mission to make Guizhou a world-class travel destination.

“The introduction of the EH216-S pilotless human-carrying aircraft brings new vitality and innovation to Guizhou’s tourism sector.” , Yusheng Meng, Deputy GM, Guizhou Tourism Group

Economic and Social Impacts

The integration of eVTOL technology into Guizhou’s tourism industry is expected to have far-reaching economic and social impacts. On the economic front, it will create new job opportunities in aircraft maintenance, operations, and customer service. It will also stimulate local supply chains involved in component manufacturing and R&D.

From a social perspective, the initiative supports the Chinese government’s broader goals of regional development and technological self-reliance. By bringing high-tech solutions to less urbanized areas like Guizhou, the project helps bridge the urban-rural development gap and promotes inclusive growth.

Furthermore, the use of pilotless aircraft for tourism can serve as a testing ground for other applications such as emergency medical services, logistics, and surveillance. This could pave the way for broader adoption of UAM technologies across various sectors in China and beyond.

Conclusion: A Blueprint for the Future of Aerial Tourism

The collaboration between EHang, Guizhou Tourism Group, and the Anshun city government is a pioneering step in the evolution of urban air mobility and low-altitude tourism. By combining technological innovation with policy support and natural beauty, Guizhou is setting a benchmark for how regions can leverage eVTOLs to drive economic and social development.

As these aircraft begin operations in 2025, they will not only transform the way tourists experience Guizhou but also serve as a model for other provinces and countries looking to explore the potential of low-altitude economies. The success of this initiative could accelerate the global adoption of UAM technologies and open up new frontiers in smart tourism and regional development.

FAQ

What is the EH216-S aircraft?
The EH216-S is a pilotless, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developed by EHang. It is designed for short-distance urban transport and tourism, capable of carrying two passengers autonomously.

Where will the EH216-S aircraft be deployed?
The aircraft will be deployed in various scenic areas across Guizhou province, including Jiabang Rice Terraces, Basha Miao Village, and Yunfeng Tunpu in Anshun.

What is the goal of the cooperation between EHang and Guizhou?
The partnership aims to promote low-altitude tourism, develop a sustainable low-altitude economy, and establish Anshun as a demonstration zone for UAM technologies and applications.

Sources

• EHang Official News