Sri Lanka is exploring the possibility of introducing a passenger drone service as part of efforts to promote the country’s tourism industry.

A special discussion on the proposed service has been held at the Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation, chaired by Minister Anura Karunathilaka. Senior officials from the Ministry and the Civil Aviation Authority, along with representatives of China-based EHang, took part in the meeting.

During the discussion, EHang representatives presented details of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which can carry two passengers. The aircraft are equipped with 16 propulsion fans and are designed to operate autonomously using artificial intelligence technology, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said in a statement.

Officials also noted that the proposed service could have applications beyond tourism, including emergency disaster response and maritime operations.

However, Minister Karunathilaka stressed that commercial operations could only begin after obtaining all necessary approvals relating to aviation safety, regulatory requirements, air traffic management, emergency procedures, cybersecurity, data protection and designated landing sites.

The possibility of operating the service at major tourist destinations such as Sigiriya, Pidurangala, Colombo and Port City Colombo was also discussed, the statement noted.

Participants further considered the establishment of a demonstration zone within Port City Colombo to test and showcase the passenger aircraft.

The proposed initiative could introduce a new form of aerial transportation for tourists while also opening up potential applications for emergency and maritime services in Sri Lanka.