- Mobile platform helps users check whether airspace is cleared for drone operations
- Tool arrives as authorities tighten oversight amid growing safety concerns
Zhejiang has launched a mobile service platform aimed at helping drone operators determine whether they can legally fly in a given area.
The rollout comes as authorities seek to curb unauthorized drone activity amid the rapid growth of the low-altitude economy.
The service, called “zheli changfei” (浙里畅飞), literally “Free Flying in Zhejiang,” went live on June 16 as the mobile extension of Zhejiang’s provincial drone operation and supervision platform.
Developed by Zhejiang’s Department of Transportation, it is accessible through the province’s government services app “zheliban” and WeChat mini-programs.
Flight compliance tool
The initial release centers on a flight eligibility query function, allowing users to quickly determine whether a location is approved for drone operations.
Users can enter a place name, coordinates, route or designated area, and the system will identify whether the location falls within permitted airspace.
The platform also provides weather and flight-related intelligence for approved zones.
The launch comes as consumer drones become increasingly widespread, bringing renewed concerns over unauthorized flights that can threaten civil aviation, public safety and national security.
Bypassing no-fly zones
Authorities in Ningbo previously uncovered a case involving the illegal modification of drone flight-control systems. The operation provided software hacks to 221 users, enabling drones to bypass no-fly zones and altitude restrictions.
In another incident cited by local authorities, unauthorized drone activity disrupted military training exercises and prevented planned drills from being completed.
Against that backdrop, the platform is intended to address a common problem among recreational drone pilots who want to comply with regulations but struggle to determine where flying is permitted.
“Previously I had to spend a long time checking before every flight, and I was never sure the information was accurate,” said a drone enthusiast surnamed Zhang from Hangzhou. “Now there’s an official platform, which makes things much easier.”
Digital infrastructure
Beyond airspace checks, the platform includes a knowledge base covering drone regulations, industry guidance and frequently asked questions.
It also offers a weather service that provides real-time information on conditions, temperature, wind direction and wind speed at potential flight locations.
The platform represents one of Zhejiang’s latest efforts to build digital infrastructure for low-altitude transportation services.
Future updates are expected to add information on public takeoff and landing sites, as well as low-altitude tourism services, according to the operator.
