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Rwanda Launches Africa’s First Self-Flying Electric Air Taxi At Aviation Africa 2025 Summit

In a historic milestone for African aviation, Rwanda has unveiled the continent’s first self-flying electric air taxi, developed by Chinese autonomous aerial vehicle company EHang in partnership with the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC).

The breakthrough demonstration, held during the Aviation Africa 2025 Summit and Exhibition in Kigali, featured the EHang EH216-S, a pilotless passenger-carrying eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft. This marks the first public flight of its kind in Africa, signaling Rwanda’s ambition to pioneer next-generation, low-altitude transportation systems.

The event was attended by eminent dignitaries including President Paul Kagame, Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore, and Director General of the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority Silas Udahemuka, alongside aviation experts, regulators, investors, and media from across the continent.

Speaking at the summit, President Kagame hailed the demonstration as a bold step into Africa’s aviation future, emphasizing Rwanda’s commitment to innovation and sustainable transport. He described the air taxi project as part of the country’s broader vision of leveraging technology to transform urban mobility and ease traffic congestion.

The EH216-S showcased a range of advanced capabilities, with a cruising speed of 100 km/h, a top speed of 130 km/h, a flight time of about 21 minutes, and a maximum range of 35 km. The aircraft is designed to operate without a human pilot, offering an eco-friendly solution to urban transportation challenges.

Industry stakeholders at the summit lauded the development as a game-changer for Africa, highlighting its potential to reduce carbon emissions, improve connectivity, and place Rwanda at the forefront of aviation innovation on the continent.

The launch of Africa’s first self-flying air taxi reflects Rwanda’s growing reputation as a hub for digital transformation, positioning the country as a leader in futuristic transport solutions in Africa.

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