Rwanda Conducts Africa's First Public Autonomous Electric Air Taxi Flight

Rwanda has made history by successfully completing Africa's first public flight of an autonomous electric air taxi. The demonstration took place on September 4, 2025, during the Africa Aviation Summit in Kigali, showcasing the EHang EH216-S model.

The event, held at the Kigali Convention Centre and attended by over 1,700 delegates, highlighted Rwanda's commitment to leading in advanced air mobility solutions and the continent's burgeoning low-altitude economy. The EHang EH216-S, an autonomous aerial vehicle (AAV), executed a pre-programmed flight path, reaching an altitude of approximately 100 meters before a vertical landing.

The EHang EH216-S is designed for urban air mobility, typically carrying two passengers. It has a maximum speed of around 130 km/h and a range of up to 35 kilometers. Its operation is fully autonomous, marking a significant advancement in pilotless aviation for public transport.

This pioneering flight was a collaborative effort between the Rwandan Government and the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), with crucial facilitation from the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA). Rwanda's Minister of Infrastructure, Jimmy Gasore, stated the nation's goal to enhance urban connectivity and economic dynamism through innovative transportation. Huang Qilin, CRBC Rwanda Office Director, echoed this, calling the cooperation a testament to their commitment to bringing innovative solutions to Africa.

This achievement builds on Rwanda's previous successes with drone technology, including its partnership with Zipline for delivering essential medical supplies to remote areas. The successful demonstration of the EH216-S further solidifies Rwanda's position as a frontrunner in adopting cutting-edge aviation technologies across Africa, offering a glimpse into the future of urban mobility and economic growth.