Malaysia announced on June 24 a plan to offer commercial low-altitude cargo and passenger drone services by 2030, led by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) developing a regulatory framework for the initiative [1, 2]. CAAM defines low-altitude airspace as up to 3,000 metres (9,840 feet) above ground level [1, 2].

Limited commercial freight drone operations are targeted to begin in the first quarter of 2027, providing an early phase for cargo delivery before passenger drone and air taxi services are introduced [1, 2]. Passenger drones require further studies, safety assessments, and operational trials before regulatory approval is granted [1, 2].

Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the new rules "will provide the necessary foundations to support safe airspace integration, operational oversight, industry development and future mobility solutions" [1]. He also stressed the importance of developing Malaysia's own maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) and manufacturing standards for the drone sector, which remains less mature than traditional aerospace industries [1].

Foreign companies, including Chinese firms, have shown interest in Malaysia’s low-altitude drone market but must form joint ventures with local companies to operate there [1, 2]. The government aims to build local MRO capabilities and manufacturing standards aligned with the unfolding drone ecosystem [1, 2].

Malaysia’s aerospace industry generated RM32.5 billion in revenue last year across about 250 companies, supported by global players like Airbus, Boeing, and Collins Aerospace [3]. The sector targets 15% to 20% growth this year, aiming to reach RM55 billion revenue by 2030 under the Malaysia Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030 [3]. The Asia-Pacific MRO market is projected to exceed US$60 billion (RM246.83 billion) by 2030 [3].

At the Malaysia Aerospace Summit 2026 held today, industry growth targets and expansion plans were highlighted, reflecting rapid sector development [3].

Malaysia expects to unveil a comprehensive national roadmap for commercial drone and air taxi services by the end of 2026, providing a detailed strategy for the emerging low-altitude economy [4].