5.5G: The New Engine Driving Hong Kong’s Low-Altitude Economy

The HKSAR Government’s latest Policy Address has proposed plans to develop the low altitude economy, aiming to transform the lower airspace into a new driver of economic growth. The success of this initiative requires sound infrastructure, particularly a comprehensive communications network. 

The low-altitude economy covers business activities in airspace below 1,000 metres, including the operation of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft and drones for various applications. With over 90 per cent of Hong Kong covered by the 5G network, the city is well-positioned to support this development. Local telecom operators have introduced 5G-Advanced (5.5G) to enhance drone stability and safety, speeding up the development of the low-altitude economy. 

5.5G is a significant advancement towards 6G technology and is vital in developing the low-altitude economy. With data transmission speeds ten times faster than 5G and much lower latency, 5.5G provides drones with radar-like capabilities to detect objects within range. This greatly improves the management and control of lower airspace activities. 

Moreover, 5.5G simultaneously employs multiple transmission and receiving points, ensuring stable connections even in Hong Kong’s dense urban environment. In a compact city like Hong Kong, this technology enables the coordination of multiple drones, streamlining operations whilst reducing manpower needs and boosting efficiency. 

Building on these advancements, 5.5G supports the seamless integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies into drone applications, creating a smarter, connected network in lower airspace. These technologies allow businesses to monitor operations in real-time, share data efficiently, and analyse collected images and information through advanced platforms. 

The applications of drones in the low-altitude economy are extensive and diverse. They range from aerial shows and photography. Drones are increasingly utilised for emergency response, professional surveys, and building inspection and maintenance. In the context of smart city development, drones support various initiatives through monitoring and patrol functions while proving invaluable in disaster relief efforts through their rapid response capabilities. 

The Mainland has been at the forefront of low-altitude economy development, pioneering various drone applications. Its establishment of smart lower airspace infrastructure – including hardware, communications networks, flight paths, and management platforms – provides a valuable reference for Hong Kong’s development of lower airspace management. 

The Government has launched the “Low-altitude Economy Regulatory Sandbox” programme to allow industry players to conduct drone trials within designated flight routes. The initial phase focuses on testing drone delivery services for medicines and food items. With ongoing advancement in 5.5G technology, the scope of applications is expected to expand, creating new opportunities across sectors and driving growth in Hong Kong’s low altitude economy. These developments position Hong Kong to emerge as a leader in this sector, unlocking new opportunities for industries and shaping a smarter future.