On September 28, the Hanoi Department of Science and Technology and Hung Viet Trading, Investment and Technology JSC signed a cooperation agreement to research and test low-altitude economic development models under a regulatory sandbox framework.
One of the key proposals involves the controlled trial of the EH216-S electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, commonly referred to as a "flying taxi", for passenger and cargo transport services.
The Hanoi Department of Science and Technology and Hung Viet Investment Trading and Technology Joint Stock Company sign the cooperation agreement on September 28 (Photo: Department of Science and Technology).
Under the agreement, the two parties will cooperate in researching, developing and proposing pilot operations of EHang autonomous aircraft. The initiative is expected to serve as a foundation for building a low-altitude economy model in Hanoi.
The proposed trial programme at Hoa Lac High-Tech Park is expected to be implemented in four phases.
In parallel with aircraft testing, the parties will study traffic management systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and develop an Operations Control Centre (OCC) to support future operations.
If the controlled trial proves successful, further studies will be conducted on commercially viable low-altitude economic models.
The cooperation programme also includes technical training for drone operations, the establishment of operational management centres and the development of expertise in managing eVTOL aircraft systems.
Research will cover technical standards, operational regulations and flight safety requirements. The partnership also aims to promote technology transfer, professional exchanges and the gradual development of domestic expertise in advanced aviation technologies.
According to the plan, Hung Viet will be responsible for preparing the technological, technical, financial and human resources needed to implement the sandbox programme from October.
The company will also prepare the necessary documentation and proposals in accordance with regulatory requirements.
However, the signing of the cooperation agreement does not mean the EH216-S will immediately be authorised to conduct flight trials in Hanoi.
Under the proposed framework, controlled testing can only proceed after receiving formal approval from the Hanoi People's Committee.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Hanoi Vice Chairman Truong Viet Dung said the flying taxi model has not previously been tested in the city.
Dung noted that research into the technology could create momentum for related sectors, including data management, infrastructure development, workforce training and advanced aviation engineering. The initiative is also expected to provide a new approach to addressing urban transport challenges.
Hanoi City Vice Chairman Truong Viet Dung speaks at the event (Photo: Department of Science and Technology).
He called on the Department of Science and Technology, Hung Viet and relevant agencies to accelerate preparations and complete the sandbox proposal for submission to city authorities for review and approval.