In the coming days, small passenger aircraft known as air taxis will take to the skies of Kigali, marking the introduction of Urban Air Mobility (UAM) in Rwanda.
The service, the first of its kind in Africa, is being introduced by EHang, a Chinese company recognized globally for its cutting-edge aviation technology.
The initiative will be unveiled at the 9th Africa Aviation Summit, scheduled for Sept. 4–5, 2025, in Kigali. It is being implemented in partnership with the Government of Rwanda and the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC).
EHang, working closely with CRBC—which already operates in Rwanda—has begun rolling out its EH216-S eVTOL aircraft, fully powered by electricity.
The project positions Rwanda as a hub for testing and deploying innovative aviation technologies. Officials say the partnership with CRBC will enable the country to tap into advanced engineering expertise as Rwanda builds a modern network of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions designed to reduce road congestion, connect communities, and provide sustainable transport.
The inaugural flight of the EH216-S will be a milestone for Africa and a model for the regulatory and policy reforms needed to integrate this form of transport.
Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure, Jimmy Gasore, said: “Rwanda continues to invest heavily in building a promising future where cities are better connected and economies grow through innovative transport solutions.”
He added that the collaboration with CRBC lays a strong foundation for innovation. “By working together on these historic flights, we are not only showcasing the future of aviation but also reinforcing our commitment to safe, modern, and professionally regulated air mobility.”
Huang Oifin, CRBC’s country manager in Rwanda, said the company was proud to partner with the government on a project aligned with the country’s vision for advanced aviation technologies.
“Leveraging our strength in construction and international cooperation, we are ready to work with Rwanda to unlock emerging economic opportunities and chart new paths for development across the continent.”
CRBC operates in more than 70 countries, providing services in road, bridge, port, railway, and airport construction, as well as infrastructure management.
The EH216-S eVTOL aircraft had its first demonstration flight at the Kigali Convention Centre as Rwanda prepares to host the aviation summit. The drone-like aircraft is 100% electric, can fly at altitudes of up to 100 meters, cover a distance of 30 kilometers or 25 minutes on a single charge, and carry two passengers. It is equipped with obstacle-detection systems and produces no emissions.
Melissa Rusanganwa, head of international cooperation at the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA), said: “You could see that it took off safely without any problem, everything had been thoroughly checked. Its uniqueness lies in being completely emissions-free, which supports environmental protection.”
She noted that the aircraft is already in operation in some European countries and is now being tested in Africa. Passengers will receive safety briefings similar to those given on traditional aircraft before flights.
Rwanda already has experience with drones delivering blood and medicines to hospitals, as well as supporting livestock farming by transporting semen and veterinary supplies. With this launch, it will become the first African country to test passenger air taxis.
