UAV test base empowers low-altitude economy in Xi'an

Xixian New Area UAV Test Base, the first civil UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) test base in Shaanxi province, supports the development and large-scale exploration of Xi'an's low-altitude economy.

It provides full-chain services for UAV enterprises, including test flights, industrial clustering, and talent development and is an important practical model for the operation of domestic civil UAV test flights.

The base was established in February 2025 and started operation in June of that year. It focuses on technology empowerment, deploying intelligent equipment, including 20 sets of 5G-A communication and sensing base stations, low-altitude time difference of arrival positioning technology, and laser wind-finding radars, supported by facilities such as UAV cabins and smart hangars.

All equipment areas are now operating at full capacity, with two approved airspace areas covering nearly 120 square kilometers, six trunk routes, and multiple branch routes covering Xixian New Area and Xi'an Hi-tech Industries Development Zone, forming a regional low-altitude flight route network.

Thirteen UAV-related enterprises have now settled in the base, which recorded a cumulative safe test flight mileage of 5,488 kilometers throughout 2025, operated 441 flights, served 164 enterprises, and trained over 200 UAV pilots.

The base has deepened cooperation with local universities, such as Xidian University, and relevant industry associations, launching university-enterprise internship programs and hosting provincial-level competitions.

The base has effectively promoted the integration and growth of Xi'an's low-altitude economy industrial chain, providing solid support for the integration of regional scientific and technological innovation resources and for coordinated industrial development.