Beyond Planar Constraints: The Dual Threshold Effect of the Low-Altitude Economy on Rural Tourism Value Chains—Evidence from China

The 2026 Central Document No. 1 mandates the integration of low-altitude technologies (e.g., UAVs) into rural industries. This study investigates how the low-altitude economy (LAE) overcomes traditional spatial accessibility constraints to reshape rural tourism. Drawing on Lefebvre’s "production of space" theory, we construct a framework analyzing "technology shocks, spatial restructuring, and value capture." Using balanced panel data from 30 counties in Guangdong and Fujian (2018–2024), we employ a multi-period Difference-in-Differences (DID) model to quantify policy effects. The results show: (1) Overall Effect: LAE policies significantly boost tourism revenue and visitor volumes, demonstrating both immediate shocks and dynamic cumulative effects. (2) Heterogeneity: A novel "resource-infrastructure" dual threshold exists; LAE dividends rely on high-grade scenic endowments and robust ground transport networks, indicating "air-ground synergy" rather than substitution. (3) Mechanism: The policy drives value via supply-side innovation (new business formats) and demand-side marketing (attention economy). These findings challenge "technological determinism," suggesting LAE acts as a conditional "accelerator" rather than a universal panacea.