How Low-Altitude Economy is Reshaping Construction Machinery Demand

Introduction
The rapid rise of China's low-altitude economy—encompassing tourism, logistics, and emergency services using drones and light aircraft—is creating unexpected synergies with the construction machinery sector. As infrastructure adapts to support this new aerial ecosystem, demand for specialized equipment is surging.

1. Infrastructure Development Driving Machinery Sales

• Vertiport Construction Boom: Cities like Chengdu and Shenzhen are building vertiports (drone/air taxi hubs), requiring compact excavators, laser-guided pavers, and high-precision cranes.

• Example: SANY's SY19E mini excavator (1.9-ton) sales rose 22% in 2024 for vertiport groundwork.

2. Drone Support Equipment Demand

• Mobile Charging Stations: XCMG launched the "Drone Charger RT50" – a hybrid-powered service truck with 8 simultaneous charging docks.

• Payload Handling: Forklift manufacturers (e.g., Hangcha) are adding drone-compatible attachments for cargo transfer between ground/air.

3. Policy-Driven Market Expansion

• 2025 Low-Altitude Tourism Pilot Zones: 30+ Chinese cities will open low-altitude routes, needing:

• Noise-reduced pavers (for urban vertiports)

• Anti-interference cranes (near flight paths)

• Data Point: Zoomlion reports 37% increase in "urban-spec" crane inquiries Q2 2025.

Challenges & Innovations

• Precision Requirements:

• LiDAR-equipped graders (e.g., CAT's Next Gen 120) now standard for landing zone leveling (±2mm tolerance).

• Safety Regulations:

• New ISO 21873-2025 mandates electromagnetic shielding for machinery operating near drone corridors.

Conclusion
The $50B low-altitude economy (China, 2025) isn't just creating skies full of drones—it's driving a quiet revolution on the ground. Machinery manufacturers adapting fastest to aerial integration requirements will dominate this hybrid market.