An electric-powered pilotless air taxi took off in Africa for the first time last week, showcasing Rwanda’s readiness as a fast-developing economy willing to embrace disruptive technologies.
The product on show was an EH216-S automated vertical take-off and landing vehicle (eVTOL), made by EHang Holdings in the Chinese city of Guangzhou.
The two-seater taxi successfully completed a passenger-carrying flight during the 9th Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition, attended by 34 countries.
The flight was operated in collaboration with the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA) and China Road and Bridge Corporation.
Among the first passengers were RCAA staff and reporters from China Media Group, underscoring the aircraft’s potential for urban air mobility.
The summit drew high-profile attendees, including Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Chinese Ambassador Wenqi Gao.
Designed for short-range urban transport, the EH216-S exemplifies a new generation of low-altitude aircraft garnering global interest.
Its successful demonstration in Rwanda underscores the increasing appeal of eVTOL technology to address urban congestion and transport challenges.
The Rwandan government expressed enthusiasm for the technology’s potential to revolutionise regional connectivity.
A statement said the landmark flight signalled a new chapter for African aviation, with the continent poised to explore innovative solutions from global partners like EHang.
As demand for sustainable and efficient transport grows, the successful debut of the EH216-S could pave the way for broader adoption of autonomous air taxis across Africa, the statement said.
