Gia Lai proposes pilot program for unmanned air taxis

The Gia Lai Provincial People's Committee has proposed a pilot program to operate unmanned air taxis (eVTOL) to connect the Central Highlands with coastal tourism hubs like Quy Nhon. The proposal aims to provide a smart, green, and innovative transportation solution to navigate the complex terrain between the highlands and the coast.

Local authorities noted that while Vietnam has conducted tests for cargo drones, there are currently no pilot programs for passenger transport. Because existing aviation laws do not yet fully address legal frameworks, certifications, vertiports, or unmanned traffic management (UTM) for passenger eVTOLs, the province suggests a controlled regulatory sandbox approach under the Law on Science, Technology, and Innovation.