KIGALI, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda and China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) have partnered to launch Africa's first-ever public flight of a self-flying electric air taxi in the country, the Rwandan government said.
The initiative solidifies Rwanda's position as Africa's hub for testing and implementing cutting-edge aviation technology, the Rwandan Ministry of Infrastructure said in a statement on Wednesday.
A live demonstration of the EHang EH216-S pilotless electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft was staged Thursday morning during the Africa Aviation Summit, which runs from Thursday to Friday in Kigali, the capital.
The showcase aims to provide stakeholders and regulators across the continent with a real-time case study in advanced air mobility, the ministry said.
By partnering with CRBC's global engineering expertise, Rwanda aims to build a new ecosystem for advanced air mobility, a technology designed to reduce traffic congestion, connect communities and create sustainable transportation options, the statement said.
"Rwanda is actively building a future where our cities are more connected and our economy is more dynamic through innovative transport solutions," the statement quoted Minister of Infrastructure Jimmy Gasore as saying.
"By collaborating on this historic flight, we are not only showcasing the future of aviation but also demonstrating our dedication to fostering a safe, progressive regulatory environment for advanced air mobility," the minister said.
Rwanda aims to attract investment and technology partners to its emerging air mobility market, which builds on its success in pioneering drone delivery services, according to officials.
EHang, a world leader in urban air mobility solutions, partnered with CRBC to expand its international footprint, achieving the first successful African flight of its EH216-S eVTOL aircraft in Kigali.
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