Research and Applications of Low-Altitude Urban Traffic System

Dear Colleagues,

Urban low-altitude traffic systems are an emerging and transformative urban transportation system, promising to revolutionize how people and goods move within and between cities. This involves the use of drones, air taxis, and other aerial vehicles operating at low altitudes, typically below 500 feet, in increasingly congested urban areas where traditional ground transportation systems struggle to keep pace, leading to delays, pollution, and inefficiencies. Urban low-altitude traffic offers a promising solution to these challenges by utilizing the airspace above cities for fast, efficient, and sustainable transport.

Integrating these aerial vehicles into urban environments poses significant challenges. Developing appropriate regulatory frameworks is crucial to ensure safety, manage airspace effectively, and protect privacy. Robust communication systems are needed for the real-time coordination and control of aerial vehicles. Infrastructure development, such as vertiports and charging stations, is essential to support the operation and maintenance of these vehicles. Safety and public acceptance are also critical. Addressing concerns related to noise pollution, visual impact, and equitable access is vital for gaining public support and ensuring that the benefits of urban low-altitude traffic are widely shared.

This Special Issue explores various dimensions of urban low-altitude traffic, presenting cutting-edge research and insights across transportation, communication, safety, and other relevant areas, providing a comprehensive overview of this rapidly evolving field. The topics include the following:

• Latest innovations in drones and air taxis, including propulsion systems, battery advancements, and autonomous navigation technologies;
• Systems and strategies for managing urban airspace, including unmanned traffic management (UTM) systems and their integration with traditional air traffic control;
• Advanced communication networks enabling urban aerial vehicles’ real-time data exchange, control, and coordination;
• Technologies and protocols designed to prevent collisions and ensure the safe operation of aerial vehicles in urban environments;
• Design, location, and implementation of vertiports, landing pads, and electric charging stations essential for supporting urban aerial traffic;
• Infrastructure for the maintenance and support of aerial vehicles, ensuring their reliability and longevity;
• Environmental benefits of electric propulsion systems, optimizing flight operations, and reducing the carbon footprint of urban aerial traffic;
• Addressing the social implications of urban low-altitude traffic, including noise pollution, visual impact, and strategies for gaining public acceptance;
• Exploring how urban aerial traffic can be designed to be accessible and beneficial to all segments of society, including underserved communities.

This Special Issue aims to provide a holistic view of urban low-altitude traffic, showcasing interdisciplinary research and the collaboration necessary to realize its full potential. By addressing the technical, regulatory, infrastructural, environmental, and societal dimensions, we hope to contribute to the advancement and integration of urban low-altitude traffic solutions, making our cities smarter, cleaner, and more connected.

Dr. Yujie Yuan
Dr. Haoran Chi
Dr. Chun Sing Lai
Guest Editors

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• artificial intelligence
• unmanned traffic management
• urban low-altitude traffic
• urban aerial traffic
• autonomous navigation