Welcome to the Research Centre for Low Altitude Economy (RCLAE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). As a global leader in advancing low-altitude technology and applications, RCLAE is at the forefront of pioneering innovative solutions that tackle the challenges and harness the opportunities arising from a rapidly evolving airspace landscape.
At RCLAE, we bring together the strengths of academia, industry, and technology innovators to shape the future of low-altitude airspace utilization. The dynamic rise of small unmanned aircraft (SUA), urban air mobility (UAM), and intelligent air traffic management requires a multidisciplinary approach. By integrating our expertise and strength in aeronautical engineering, aviation, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and systems design, we are committed to advancing scalable, safe, and sustainable solutions that benefit Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, and the global community.
Building on PolyU’s renowned legacy in aviation research, our Centre bridges cutting-edge academic inquiry with real-world industry challenges. Collaborations with key government agencies, innovative technology developers, and a diverse network of international partners empower us to translate research breakthroughs into actionable strategies. Whether optimizing drone logistics networks or designing next-generation low-altitude traffic management systems, our research and innovation are redefining how societies harness aerial resources with efficiency and safety.
Education remains a cornerstone of our mission. Our MSc in Low-altitude Economy programme is designed to cultivate future leaders who are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of this emerging sector. This unique programme blends technical mastery with strategic insight, offering specializations in Low-altitude systems engineering and business innovation. Students engage with real-world challenges—from UAV-enabled smart city integration to sustainable airspace operations—preparing them to drive technological advancements and spearhead industry transformation.
I invite you to explore our groundbreaking initiatives—from autonomous delivery systems to cross-border air mobility solutions—and join us in shaping a future where low-altitude economies thrive sustainably. Together, we are committed to establishing PolyU as a global beacon of innovation in this field.
Connect with us via our website and social media to stay updated on our latest research, events, and collaboration opportunities.
Prof. Wen-Hua CHEN
Chair Professor of Robotics and Autonomous Systems,
Director of Research Centre for Low Altitude Economy
