China approves pilotless flying taxis for commercial passenger services

China has reportedly taken the first step towards creating a commercial flying taxi industry. According to state-run news agency Xinhua, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has approved the country's first-ever passenger drones or flying taxis for commercial use. Once the favourite child of science fiction movies, flying cars have yet to become a full-fledged reality, though several countries are conducting trials and private players have been showcasing working models of air taxis for years. These vehicles are expected to provide an alternate mode of travel, reducing urban traffic and the burden on the roads. EHang Holdins and Hefei Hey Airlines have obtained air operator certificates, clearing both Nasdaq-listed companies to use unmanned aerial vehicles for commercial passenger services, such as sightseeing tours. With the issuance of the air operator certificate, both Ehang Holdings and Hefei Hey Airlines have passed the final hurdle before the commercial operations of their respective passenger air taxi services. As per a report by Citic Securities, both the companies had already obtained the type certificate, production certificate, and airworthiness certificate.<br/>