Sri Lanka Set to Launch Passenger Drone Transport Under Civil Aviation Authority Plans

Sri Lanka is taking another step toward futuristic urban air mobility, as the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka continues discussions on introducing Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) passenger drones to the country’s transport network.

A high-level technical meeting was recently held with participation from global eVTOL pioneer EHang Intelligent and key local aviation stakeholders. The session builds on earlier talks with Deputy Minister Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, reflecting the government’s ongoing push to explore next-generation air transport solutions in a structured and safe manner.

During the discussions, EHang showcased its cutting-edge capabilities and global milestones, including becoming the first eVTOL manufacturer to receive a Type Certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China. The company’s progress underscores the rapid evolution of passenger drone technology and its readiness for real-world deployment.

A key proposal presented at the meeting was the establishment of an eVTOL Regulatory Sandbox in Sri Lanka. This framework would enable controlled testing, research, and pilot operations, creating a clear pathway toward eventual commercial deployment of passenger drone services.

Officials also explored critical aspects required for integrating Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) into Sri Lanka’s aviation ecosystem. These included regulatory and certification processes, operational planning, airspace management, infrastructure development, safety oversight, and inter-agency coordination.

The meeting was chaired by Director General of Civil Aviation Captain Daminda Rambukwella and included representatives from multiple government bodies such as the Ministry of Defence Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, Board of Investment of Sri Lanka, and Airport and Aviation Services Sri Lanka.

Authorities emphasized that while innovation remains a priority, safety and regulatory compliance will remain central to any future rollout. The Civil Aviation Authority reaffirmed its commitment to aligning with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization, ensuring that any introduction of passenger drone services in Sri Lanka is both safe and sustainable.

With growing global momentum behind Advanced Air Mobility, Sri Lanka’s proactive approach signals its ambition to be at the forefront of next-generation transportation in the region.