The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) announced today the launch of its Low Altitude Economy Research Center (LAERC), a strategic initiative designated to bolster national and HKSAR government's development plans for the Low Altitude Economy (LAE). Emphasizing highly interdisciplinary approach, the Center integrates expertise in artificial intelligence, engineering, and business to foster the development of a LAE ecosystem, with a vision to translate research into pioneering applications through public-private-academic collaboration. Recently, the LAERC submitted a proposal for building LAE sandbox to the HKSAR government and is ready to collaborate with strategic industry partners on innovative trial tests within this framework.
In light of rapid technological advancements and growing global interest in the Low Altitude Economy, the Premier of the State Council highlighted this sector as a new growth engine during the second annual session of the 14th National People's Congress. In alignment with national strategies, the HKSAR Government established a dedicated working group and a sandbox pilot scheme to gather industry and expert insights on integrating aerial vehicles into urban settings. As a trailblazer in engineering, AI and data science, HKUST is ready to be the driving force of LAE development. Drawing on the vision from the university's Council Chair Prof. Harry SHUM and its alumni who founded the world-leading drone company DJI, the new HKUST LAE Research Center is set to contribute to exploring application scenarios, amending regulations and enhancing infrastructure to boost economic growth and operational efficiency in Hong Kong.
The LAERC aims to revolutionize Hong Kong's LAE through four dynamic pillars of innovation. First, the Center is leading advancements in aerial control and engineering planning, focusing on perception, control, and safety to harness the full potential of drone services. Building on this foundation, the research team explores airspace, route, and service planning, incorporating micro weather data and mobility management. Several projects are poised for immediate trials to supercharge logistics and transportation efficiency. In addition to these efforts, robust digital infrastructure is vital for success. The LAERC develops technologies in sensing, communication, data management, AI, security, and networking to ensure seamless coordination of low altitude operations. Through these innovations, HKUST provides critical data and insights to support sustainable business development while proposing policy enhancements and regulatory amendments that will propel the LAE industry forward. These initiatives will empower the HKSAR Government to create supportive frameworks that cultivate a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and growth, ultimately aligning with the national strategic roadmap for LAE development.
HKUST Vice-President for Research and Development Prof. Tim CHENG said, "HKUST is uniquely positioned to lead the advancement of the low-altitude economy in Hong Kong, through our unparalleled vision and core competencies. Two decades ago, we established Hong Kong's largest aerodynamic and acoustic laboratory, dedicated to noise assessment and flight safety. Our unwavering commitment to innovation has been pivotal in the rise of DJI, which now commands 75% of the global drone market. By harnessing our interdisciplinary strengths in aerospace engineering, AI, big data, robotics, and business, we are well-equipped to create a comprehensive LAE ecosystem. Our campus, supported by established guidelines and management systems, along with the development of a robust data platform that underpins LAE systems like OpenSILAS, will facilitate seamless UAV operations and set a benchmark for future technologies and applications."
HKUST Dean of Engineering Prof. Hong LO stated that, "The HKUST LAE Research Center stands at the forefront of innovation, addressing critical challenges within the LAE by leveraging our unique facilities and research capabilities. Our expertise includes aerodynamics and acoustics, IoT sensing drones, transportation engineering, advanced air mobility network, and more. In addition to the LAE Research Center, we have cutting-edge resources such as Aerodynamics, Acoustics & Noise control Technology Centre (AANTC), Cheng Kar-Shun Robotics Institute and GREAT Smart Cities Institute etc. To foster public-private-academic collaboration, HKUST has submitted a proposal for the LAE sandbox scheme to the Hong Kong government. We are prepared to embark on trial tests and are excited to make significant contributions to the LAE ecosystem, driving economic growth and enriching the quality of life in our communities."
The LAERC will engage in diverse research activities*, including 3D digital model of urban infrastructure that enables real-time management of various flying zones. There is also research aimed at characterizing noise emissions of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which will lead to a comprehensive database and potentially predictive models relating UAV noise emissions in urban adoption. "The pioneering research conducted by LAERC will not only push the boundaries of technology but also translate academic findings into practical applications that drive meaningful change. We have developed systems and applications that are ready for immediate trial testing, for instance, automated UAV-based emergency response service that allows users to receive essential medical items via drones. Looking ahead, we are eager to further refine our technology to suit a variety of real-world scenarios and explore partnerships with government agencies and industrial partners," said HKUST Director of the LAERC Prof. LI Mo.
The LAERC's strategic roadmap focuses on developing innovative and safe solutions that will optimize drone delivery systems and evaluate their environmental impacts over the next two years. The center will also host workshops to share findings and engage with industry stakeholders. In the longer term, the center aims to establish enduring partnerships with international institutions and contribute the regulatory frameworks for urban air mobility, enhancing the practical application of research outcomes in the LAE.
*Please refer to Appendix I for more details of HKUST LAERC's projects
About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) (https://hkust.edu.hk/) is a world-class university committed to innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. Our holistic and interdisciplinary pedagogy approach is recognized globally. HKUST placed 3rd in the Times Higher Education's Young University Rankings 2024, 19th Worldwide and No.1 in Hong Kong in Times Higher Education's impact Rankings. Twelve of HKUST's subjects were ranked among the world's top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024. Of these, "Data Science and Artificial Intelligence" ranked first in Hong Kong and 10th in the world. Our graduates are highly competitive, consistently placing among the world's top 30 most sought-after employees. Our research and entrepreneurship endeavors are also innovative and impactful. Over 80% of our work was rated "Internationally excellent" or "world leading" in the latest Research Assessment Exercise 2020 of Hong Kong's University Grants Committee. As of November 2024, HKUST members have founded 1,800 active start-ups, including 10 Unicorns and 14 exits (IPO or M&A).
