KIGALI, Rwanda – Rwanda will make aviation history by becoming the first African country to host a public flight of a self-flying electric air taxi, in a move officials say will transform the continent’s transport future.
The demonstration, scheduled for September 4–5 at the Aviation Africa 2025 summit in Kigali, will feature the EH216-S electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, developed by Chinese tech giant EHang in partnership with the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC).
The pilotless craft will provide African regulators, investors and industry players with a live case study of how advanced air mobility (AAM) can work in practice.
Kigali Bets on Future Transport
Rwanda, already a pioneer in drone-based delivery services, hopes the trial will position Kigali as a continental hub for futuristic aviation technology.
Authorities say air taxis could one day ease traffic congestion, link underserved communities, and cut carbon emissions in urban transport.
“Rwanda is actively building a future where our cities are more connected and our economy more dynamic through innovative transport solutions,” the Minister of Infrastructure said in a statement. “By collaborating on this historic flight, we are not only showcasing the future of aviation but also demonstrating our commitment to a safe, progressive regulatory environment.”
A Transformative Era for African Skies
CRBC’s Rwanda Director General Huang Qilin hailed the partnership as proof of the country’s ambition to lead Africa’s aviation revolution.
“This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to bringing cutting-edge solutions to Africa,” he said, adding that the initiative will explore “the potential of the low-altitude economy” while drawing in global investors.
The event is expected to attract major players in transport and technology to Rwanda, marking what officials describe as the start of a transformative era in African aviation.
