China's booming low-altitude economy has sparked strong demand for talent capable of controlling large-scale drone light shows, as professionals must combine skills in algorithms, 3D modeling, art, and more.
At a recent spectacular drone light show staged by a low-altitude flight team based in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, where the low-altitude economy is rapidly expanding, an incredible number of 4,000 drones moved in perfect synchronization, guided by just one pilot known as the drone swarm planner.
These experts choreograph drones like dancers in the sky, creating intricate and dynamic visual effects.
"When we design effects such as waves rolling or a head tilting as the sun rises, each motion is carefully animated. Every sequence requires multiple rounds of testing because drones have to maintain a safe distance from one another. Once everything is perfect, we upload the final program. And when the whole swarm lifts off and lands together with no errors, that's a fantastic feeling," said Liu Zhihao, a drone swarm planner.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority, China's low-altitude economy is expected to reach 3.5 trillion yuan (about 482 billion U.S. dollars) by 2035, fueling a surge in demand for skilled drone operators.
At a national press briefing in October 2024, officials reported a shortage of one million drone operators nationwide.
"Business has grown rapidly, almost doubling in size, especially during holidays. The number of drones per show is rising, and we're doing more shows than ever. But there's a significant shortage of skilled pilots. Every company needs more talent," said Li Yang, director of swarm technology of the drone light show.
To meet this growing demand, universities and vocational colleges are expanding training programs to develop the next generation of drone experts.
"Currently, drone swarms are primarily used in entertainment. But that's just scratching the surface. There is enormous potential in urban logistics, emergency response, and low-altitude transport," said Yan Xiangfeng, director of the drone system support center at Chengdu Aeronautic Polytechnic.
Students training in drone technology are enthusiastic about their future careers.
"Low-altitude economy is a key national strategy, with strong policy support. Drones are being used in over 20 sectors, like delivery and disaster relief. Our hands-on training makes us more attractive to employers. Personally, I love aerial photography and drone racing -- that's what drives me to learn more about these subjects," said one student.
"I think both men and women can do this job. Some technical aspects are challenging for me, such as theory, but I enjoy the hands-on part," said another student.
China's thriving low-altitude economy sparks strong demand for drone swarm planners
