Kigali, September 3, 2025 — Rwanda is set to make aviation history next week as it partners with China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) to debut Africa’s first-ever public flight of a self-flying electric air taxi during the Aviation Africa 2025 summit in Kigali.
The project involves a collaboration between EHang, a global leader in urban air mobility technology, and CRBC, which has successfully facilitated the launch of the EH216-S electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Africa. The innovation is expected to revolutionize transport by providing safe, eco-friendly, and efficient urban air mobility solutions.
According to Rwanda’s Ministry of Infrastructure, the initiative cements Rwanda’s position as a continental hub for testing and implementing cutting-edge aviation technology. The government hopes the project will ease urban congestion, improve connectivity, and attract global investment in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).
“This collaboration with CRBC provides a strong foundation to bring in new technologies and expertise,” a representative of the Ministry of Infrastructure said.
“By hosting this historic flight, Rwanda is not only demonstrating the future of aviation but also reaffirming its commitment to building a progressive regulatory environment for AAM.”
The demonstration of the EHang EH216-S pilotless eVTOL will be the first of its kind in Africa and will serve as a live case study for regulators and investors. Rwanda expects the trial to inspire broader adoption of drone delivery services and smart aerial solutions across the continent.
Huang Qilin, Director General of CRBC’s Rwanda Office, described the project as “a testament to our commitment to bringing cutting-edge solutions to Africa.” He said the collaboration will unlock the potential of low-altitude economies and create innovative development models across the region.
The Aviation Africa 2025 summit runs from September 4–5 in Kigali and is expected to attract hundreds of industry leaders, investors, and policymakers.
