Kigali – Rwanda has taken a lead in Africa’s aviation sector by hosting the first public flight of a self-flying electric air taxi, in partnership with China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), Xinhua reported.

The demonstration of the EHang EH216-S eVTOL aircraft was staged Thursday during the Africa Aviation Summit, offering regulators and stakeholders a live case study in advanced air mobility.

The project reflects Rwanda’s ambition to position itself as a hub for cutting-edge aviation technologies. Officials say advanced air mobility solutions, such as pilotless eVTOL aircraft, could help reduce urban traffic congestion, improve connectivity between communities, and create sustainable transport options.

Minister of Infrastructure Jimmy Gasore highlighted that the initiative demonstrates both technological progress and Rwanda’s commitment to a safe and forward-looking regulatory environment. The country hopes to attract investment and technology partners to further develop its emerging air mobility ecosystem, building on its successful drone delivery programmes.