Rwanda has made history by staging the public flight of Africa’s first self-flying electric air taxi. The demonstration took place at the Aviation Africa 2025 Summit in Kigali, showcasing the EHang EH216-S, a two-seat, pilotless electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
The event was organised in partnership with China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and EHang Holdings, the Chinese company behind the EH216-S. President Paul Kagame and Infrastructure Minister Jimmy Gasore were among the officials who witnessed the flight, which highlighted Rwanda’s ambition to become a regional hub for advanced air mobility.
The EH216-S is fully electric and designed to carry two passengers or light cargo over short distances without a pilot and can travel at speeds up to 130km/h. The aircraft has already received type and airworthiness certification in China, allowing EHang to expand demonstrations worldwide.
Rwanda, which already utilizes drones for medical deliveries and logistics, views the new air taxi as a step forward in leveraging technology to address transportation challenges, enhance tourism, and support emergency services. However, experts note that the Kigali flight was only a demonstration. Questions remain about costs, infrastructure, regulations, and safety before regular passenger services can begin.
President Kagame called the event “a preview of Africa’s aviation future,” while EHang and CRBC confirmed plans to explore further pilot projects and partnerships in Africa.
