Rwanda successfully conducted the continent’s first public flight of a self-flying electric air taxi during the Aviation Africa Summit on September 4–5 in Kigali.
The autonomous electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) craft, the EHang EH216-S, soared without a pilot, ferrying passengers at around 100 meters altitude. The two-seat drone flew at speeds nearing 130 km/h, with a cruising range of approximately 30 kilometres, powered by 16 electric motors across eight arms.
This historic flight was a collaborative effort between the Rwandan government, China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), and Chinese aviation innovator EHang Holdings Limited. Present at the event were President Paul Kagame, Infrastructure Minister Jimmy Gasore, and key regulators.
“This is more than just a demonstration. It is a glimpse into how Rwanda envisions its cities and economy: connected, efficient, and sustainable,” remarked Minister Gasore. President Kagame called the flight “a preview of Africa’s aviation future,” highlighting the nation’s emphasis on innovation.
The initiative is more than technological theater—it signals Rwanda’s ambition to become the continent’s hub for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). The country aims to leverage its proven track record in drone delivery and electric mobility infrastructure, setting the stage for future expansion into the low-altitude economy.
