HS Code for Passenger drones

Passenger drones, technically referred to as unmanned aircraft designed for the carriage of passengers, are classified under HS code 8806.10. This code was introduced in the 2022 version of the Harmonized System to address the emergence of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) technologies. Heading 8806 specifically covers unmanned aircraft, which are defined as aircraft other than those of heading 8802 that can fly without a pilot on board. The subheading 8806.10 is unique because it prioritizes the function of carrying people, regardless of the maximum take-off weight. This classification is a departure from previous years where drones were often classified as 'other' aircraft or even toys. The aircraft must be designed to be operated remotely or autonomously to fall under this heading. If the aircraft is designed to be piloted from within the cockpit, it would instead fall under heading 8802. The inclusion in 8806.10 signifies that the vehicle is intended for transport services, such as air taxis or emergency medical evacuation, rather than just recreational or industrial sensor use.

Products Included

• Autonomous aerial taxis
• Unmanned eVTOL passenger vehicles
• Remote-controlled passenger drones
• Unmanned emergency transport aircraft for persons

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification is HS code 8802, which is reserved for manned aircraft. If a drone has a cockpit for a pilot, it is 8802; if it is pilotless, it is 8806. Another error is using subheadings 8806.21 through 8806.99, which are based on weight (e.g., less than 250g, up to 25kg, etc.). These subheadings are only for drones *not* designed for carrying passengers. Even a very light passenger-capable drone (if such a thing existed) would still be 8806.10 because the passenger function takes precedence over weight-based subheadings. Finally, smaller drones used for photography are often confused with this code but belong in the weight-based categories of 8806.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Passenger drones?

The specific HS code for unmanned aircraft designed to carry passengers is 8806.10.

Are passenger drones classified as helicopters?

While they may have vertical lift capabilities like helicopters, if they are unmanned, they are classified under 8806.10. Manned helicopters are classified under heading 8802.