Future Flyers: TRACES x HKU UAS Team Launches Orientation Day of SUA Exploration

TRACES, in partnership with the HKU UAS Team, successfully hosted "Future Flyers: An Orientation Day of SUA Exploration" on September 27. The event introduced 13 university students to the dynamic field of Small Unmanned Aircraft (SUA), blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on flight practice.

The workshop positioned drones as a catalyst for transdisciplinary study and innovation, demonstrating how they converge engineering, AI, and aerodynamics with applications in fields about filmmaking, historical research, economy, law, military studies, and politics. This focus aligns with both Hong Kong's Low-altitude Economy (LAE) initiative and TRACES’s mission to inspire cross-disciplinary connections.

With the government’s Low-altitude Economy (LAE) initiative paving the path for drone technology in logistics, emergency services, and smart city development, there is never been a better time to explore this dynamic field.

“Drone technology was chosen as a focus because we see it as the forefront of modern transdisciplinary studies and applications,” said SHUM Hou Zit (Damien), the Chairperson of TRACES and one of the speakers of the event. “Our goal at TRACES is to serve students by expanding their knowledge while making it memorable and fun. We are glad to see so much positive feedback, and I heartily thank all instructors and participants who made this possible.”

A Balanced Blend of Theory and Practice

The full-day program was carefully structured to be both educational and engaging. The morning session began with an introduction to the transdisciplinary nature of drones by Damien. This was followed by an in-depth theory session led by CHAN Chun Hei (King), a Civil Aviation Department certified SUA pilot in advanced rating, covering key SUA regulations, aerodynamics, industry applications, drone flight controls, and safety procedures.

This theoretical foundation was immediately put into practice in the afternoon at Lung Fu Shan. The hands-on flight session, coached by King, LAI Ho Yin (Alex), and YE Ka Hin (Hinz), allowed students to pilot DJI Neo drones, practice Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) flying, and navigate an exciting obstacle course. The day concluded with an introduction to FPV (First-Person View) drone technology by Alex, the team leader of HKU UAS Team.

This balance ensured the workshop was accessible and rewarding for both beginners and those with prior drone knowledge, transforming complex ideas into an enjoyable, memorable experience.

Expanding Educational Horizons

This event underscores TRACES's commitment to moving beyond traditional academic conferences by offering hands-on workshops that equip students with practical skills, transdisciplinary awareness, and the confidence to engage with cutting-edge technologies. The collaboration with the HKU UAS Team exemplifies how partnerships can successfully bridge technical expertise with educational innovation.

The success of the "Future Flyers Series" marks just the beginning. TRACES plans to continue designing new initiatives that integrate multiple disciplines, providing students with transformative educational experiences through future workshops and collaborations. TRACES is set to expand its role as a hub for transdisciplinary education and innovation.

“With Hong Kong actively developing its Low-altitude Economy, equipping the next generation with SUA expertise is crucial,” said King. “This event has laid a strong foundation, and we plan to expand this educational initiative to high schools and universities, fostering broader interest and talent in this high-growth field.”

About TRACES

TRACES is an undergraduate-led education initiative that fosters quality education and innovation through annual academic conferences, publications, and workshops on cutting-edge topics including AI, drone technology, and interdisciplinary research. It serves as a platform that empowers students to think critically, collaborate across disciplines, and prepare for the rapidly changing world of research and innovation.