iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Yes—but the aircraft that can carry people are purpose-built passenger aircraft, not ordinary hobby drones or cargo drones with a large payload rating. One documented example is EHang’s pilotless EH216-S, for which the company reports Chinese aviation-authority certifications and operator approvals. Those approvals do not make it legal or available everywhere.
What counts as a drone that carries a person?
“Drone” is often used broadly for an aircraft flown without an onboard pilot. A passenger-carrying electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL) is a very different proposition from a consumer quadcopter or a heavy-lift cargo drone. It must be designed and approved for human occupants, and its operator must be authorized to conduct the intended flights.
A cargo aircraft’s ability to lift a given weight does not establish that it can safely or legally carry a person. Payload capacity alone says nothing about whether the aircraft design, occupant protection, flight controls, airworthiness, or operating arrangements meet passenger-aviation requirements.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
What is the EH216-S, and what approvals has it received?
EHang identifies the EH216-S as a pilotless aircraft system for carrying people. The company reports that China’s Civil Aviation Administration (CAAC) issued its type certificate on October 13, 2023, and its production certificate on April 7, 2024. EHang’s certification chronology records those milestones.
#1 Best Overall
- ★This scale model supports the adjustment of the lifting angle. Besides, this model applies the three-channel design, which is rarely seen in the market. Driven by multiple air cylinders, the propeller generates an upward airflow. The route lock is more stable .
- ★The body is made in EPP material. It's lightweight and has a smooth surface. Compared with other materials, it's flexible and anti-crash. Three wheels of the plane are made in EVA material, which is durable.
- ★The three-channel remote controller increases the control distance up to about 200 meters, which supports a farther flying distance. The remote controller is suitable for beginners.
- ★The 360-degree roll function and the new LED searchlight make the flight more ornamental.
- ★After-sales service: We have put an extra battery and an extra set of propellers, you can replace it yourself. If you encounter any situation, please send an email to us.
On March 28, 2025, EHang reported that the CAAC issued the first batch of air operator certificates for human-carrying pilotless aerial vehicles. The company says the certificates authorize their holders to conduct human-carrying services, and describes sightseeing and other services at related operating sites in Guangzhou and Hefei. See EHang’s operator-certificate announcement and its explanation of the certificates.
These are distinct approvals, not interchangeable proof of universal permission:
Rank #2
- Due to platform compatibility issue, the DJI Fly app has been removed from Google Play. DJI Neo must be activated in the DJI Fly App, to ensure a better product usage experience, please go to the DJI official website to download the App before use.
- Lightweight and Regulation Friendly - At just 135g, this drone with camera for adults 4K may be even lighter than your phone and does not require FAA registration and Remote ID. Throw Neo in your backpack or even your pocket. Just grab and go!
- Palm Takeoff & Landing, Go Controller-Free [1] - Neo takes off from your hand with just a push of a button. The safe and easy operation of this drone for adults makes it perfect for taking to family BBQs and hiking with friends.
- Subject Tracking & QuickShots - Effortlessly capture stunning vlogs as DJI Neo smartly follows you. Getting professional footage has never been easier with eight creative QuickShots modes on this drone with camera.
- Multiple Control Options, Flexible Fun - Fly Neo controller-free or with voice control (EN/CN), mobile app, or RC. Capture an epic birthday or film a family picnic; these versatile options make it easy for everyone to try this drone for adults.
- Type certificate: addresses the aircraft design.
- Production certificate: concerns the approved production process.
- Air operator certificate: concerns an operator’s authority to conduct specified services.
The reported Chinese approvals do not establish that the EH216-S is approved in another country, that flights are operating nationwide, or that tickets are currently available. EHang’s service descriptions are company reports; check the relevant regulator and operator for current permissions and availability.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Why can’t a heavy-lift cargo drone simply carry a passenger?
Carrying a human occupant changes the regulatory question from “Can it lift this much?” to whether a specific aircraft and its operation are approved for people. Aviation authorities assess the aircraft and its airworthiness, production, operating arrangements, and the qualifications or responsibilities required of the operator and crew.
Rank #3
- 【COMPACT & PORTABLE】Foldable Drone design allows for easy storage and transportation, making it perfect for on-the-go adventures.
- 【BEGINNER-FRIENDLY】One-key start, altitude hold, and 360° flip functions make this drone easy to operate, even for first-time pilots.
- 【EXTENDED FLIGHT TIME】 Comes with 2 rechargeable batteries, providing up to 24 minutes of combined flight time for uninterrupted fun.
- 【Enjoy SCREEN CONTROLLER】 Allowing for easy operation and live HD video playback, perfect for both beginners and seasoned drone enthusiasts.
- 【ADVANCED CAMERA】Drone with a 1080P HD camera, capturing stunning aerial photos and videos with exceptional clarity.
The FAA says it evaluates powered-lift certification requirements by considering “its design, production, airworthiness, and operation.” Its Advanced Air Mobility overview describes that aircraft-specific approach. The FAA’s October 22, 2024 final-rule announcement covers pilot and instructor qualification and training, along with operational rules for powered-lift aircraft. These requirements are not inferred from a cargo drone’s payload figure.
Likewise, FAA rules for small drones operated over people on the ground address risks to people beneath or near the aircraft; they are not permission to carry a passenger. The FAA explains those rules in its Operations Over People overview.
Rank #4
- ★ EPP material, very resistant to impact, built-in six-axis gyroscope flight self-stability system, beginners can easily master it.
- ★ Shock-absorbing landing gear: High-quality spring steel can effectively reduce the impact of the aircraft landing and protect the fuselage.
- ★ After pushing the dual-engine power, the forward and reverse propellers cancel out the anti-torque force, and the course lock is more stable.
- ★ The remote control has the function of large and small rudder quantity. The small rudder quantity is suitable for beginners to fly. When the large rudder quantity is continuously pulled, the aircraft can be turned over.
- ★ After-sale service：If you have any questions, please contact us through the Amazon mail system. We will reply you within 24 hours and provide you with a satisfactory solution.
Where is passenger carriage allowed?
Permission depends on the country, aircraft, operator, and intended operation. A certificate from one regulator is not a blanket approval in other jurisdictions.
Recommended Free Tools
In the European Union, EASA’s June 2026 consolidated rules for unmanned aircraft systems place UAS operations involving transport of people in the certified category. The rules identify aircraft certification, operator certification, and remote-pilot licensing where applicable among the requirements for that category.
Best Value
- 【Impressive Night Footage】F11PRO 2 Plus drone is equipped with a 48MP 1/2-inch CMOS sensor that captures clear, detailed images even in low-light conditions. Tell cinematic stories about sunset or evening landscapes that other drones simply can't see.
- 【The Perfect Tech Gift】A premium gift for men, husbands, outdoor enthusiasts, and drone lovers. The Ruko F11PRO 2 Plus delivers professional-grade performance with easy-to-use controls, making it a memorable gift for birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, or any special occasion.
- 【48MP Camera】 Equipped with a 1/2-inch CMOS sensor, it captures massive 48MP 8K photos and smooth 4K@30fps video. The pro-grade sensor ensures high dynamic range and stunning clarity, making every aerial shot look like a professional masterpiece.
- 【74 Mins Total Flight Time】 Double your adventure with 2 intelligent batteries included. Enjoy 37 minutes of flight per battery, totaling 74 minutes in the air. More time to scout, film, and explore without the constant anxiety of a low battery.
- 【20,000ft Transmission】 Explore further with a stable 20,000ft live video feed. This super long range is perfect for landowners surveying large properties or hikers seeking remote vistas with a secure, lag-free connection.
In the United States, powered-lift aircraft are subject to aircraft-specific certification and applicable pilot and operating rules. The FAA’s powered-lift overview and October 2024 rule announcement describe the framework; they do not amount to a general approval for any passenger drone. Before relying on a service or considering a flight, check the aviation authority and authorized operator for your location.
What should you verify before treating a passenger drone as a real option?
For any claimed passenger-carrying aircraft or service, check the specific aircraft and operation rather than relying on words such as “heavy lift,” “autonomous,” or “certified.” Useful questions include:
- Which aviation authority issued the certificate, and what aircraft design does it cover?
- Is the approved configuration intended to carry people, rather than cargo only?
- Does the operator hold authorization for the proposed passenger service?
- Where may that operator fly, and is the service currently offered at the location you care about?
- What operating arrangement has the authority approved—onboard pilot, remote operation, or another model?
The available EH216-S reports establish certification milestones and describe operator permissions and sites in China. They do not establish every current route, passenger condition, operating schedule, or the status of approvals elsewhere. Avoid treating a demonstration, payload specification, or sales listing as evidence of permission to carry a person.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteQuick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
