The Government of Rwanda, in collaboration with China Road and Bridge Corporation, will stage Africa’s first public demonstration of a self-flying electric air taxi at the Aviation Africa 2025 Summit in Kigali on September 4–5.
Rwanda is partnering with CRBC to develop an ecosystem for Advanced Air Mobility, a technology designed to ease traffic congestion, connect communities, and promote sustainable transport solutions.
The showcase will feature the EHang EH216-S, a pilotless electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, marking the continent’s first public flight of its kind.
The demonstration is intended as a live case study for African regulators and industry stakeholders, offering insights into the potential and safety of advanced air mobility, according to Business Insider.
Building on its global recognition for pioneering drone delivery services, Rwanda hopes the milestone will attract investment and technology partners to its emerging urban air mobility market.
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“Rwanda is actively building a future where our cities are more connected and our economy is more dynamic through innovative transport solutions,” said Minister of Infrastructure Jimmy Gasore.
Huang Qilin, Director General of CRBC’s Rwanda Office, added, “We are proud to support Rwanda’s vision of becoming a pioneer in aviation technology.”
The two-passenger EH216-S eVTOL multicopter is the world’s first flying taxi declared airworthy, following certification by China’s aviation regulator.
It cruises at 100 km/h, reaches a top speed of 130 km/h, and has a range of 35 km with a flight time of about 21 minutes.
Powered by 16 electric motors and propellers, the aircraft can carry up to 220 kg and recharges in roughly two hours.
Its carbon fiber frame, gull-wing doors, and wide windows combine safety with panoramic views, while its vertical take-off and landing capabilities require minimal infrastructure, making it ideal for urban mobility.
By July 2018, the EH216-S had already completed over 1,000 manned flights, including trips of up to 8.8 km in a single journey, demonstrating its reliability and readiness for commercial use.
Rwanda’s debut of the aircraft at the Aviation Africa 2025 Summit positions the country as a pioneer in advanced air mobility.
Following its success with drone delivery services, Rwanda is now extending its innovation into electric aviation.
The pilotless air taxi represents more than a technological showcase; it heralds a new era of urban transport in Africa, offering faster, eco-friendly mobility while reducing dependence on ground infrastructure.
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Image Credit: The Eastleigh Voice
