Hosted by IET Hong Kong Management Section | 23 May 2025
With a record-breaking 327 participants, the IET Hong Kong Management Section’s symposium on the Low-Altitude Economy marked a pivotal moment in Hong Kong’s innovation landscape. Held on 23 May 2025, the event brought together government leaders, industry experts, and engineers to explore how low-altitude technologies, like drones and urban air mobility, can reshape the city’s future.
Visionary Leadership and Expert Insights
The symposium opened with a keynote by Ms. Mable Chan, JP, Secretary for Transport and Logistics, who outlined the HKSAR Government’s strategic plans to foster growth in the low-altitude sector. Her address set the tone for a day focused on policy alignment, innovation funding, and real-world implementation.
Guided by The Hon. Ir Dr Lo Wai-Kwok, GBS, MH, JP as Symposium Advisor, the event featured a standout presentation by Ir Raymond KY Poon, JP, Director of Electrical & Mechanical Services, titled “BEElevated: Smarter City at Low Altitude.” His talk highlighted how low-altitude technologies can enhance urban infrastructure, mobility, and public services.
Breaking Barriers with Technology
One of the most exciting features of the symposium was the live AI-powered translation in both Chinese and English. This ensured that insights were accessible to a broader audience, reflecting IET’s commitment to inclusivity and knowledge sharing.
From Policy to Practice
Discussions covered everything from regional policy harmonization to legal frameworks that support drone innovation. Attendees gained practical tools and strategies to navigate the evolving landscape, with real-life case studies illustrating early successes in 2025.
The symposium emphasized that the low-altitude economy isn’t just a technological shift, it’s a transformational opportunity for Hong Kong’s economy and daily life. By encouraging investment and innovation, the event helped build confidence in the sector’s future.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic Direction: Clear guidance from government and industry leaders on how to move forward.
- Actionable Insights: Practical advice and tools for engineers and innovators.
- Sector Growth: A strong push toward investment, legal reform, and public-private collaboration.
What’s Next?
As we continue to explore the low-altitude economy, this symposium sets the stage for deeper engagement across IET communities. Members are encouraged to:
- Share learnings within their local networks
- Explore opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
- Contribute to ongoing policy and technical discussions