Technology & Innovation
EHang Conducts First Pilotless Human-Carrying eVTOL Flight in Africa
EHang achieves Africa’s first pilotless human-carrying eVTOL flight in Rwanda, marking a milestone in urban air mobility and transportation innovation.
On September 5, 2025, EHang Holdings Limited made aviation history by conducting the first pilotless, human-carrying flight of its EH216-S electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Africa. This event took place during the 9th Aviation Africa Summit in Kigali, Rwanda, and was witnessed by high-level dignitaries, including Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The milestone represents a pivotal moment for urban air mobility, highlighting both the technological maturity of autonomous aerial vehicles and the willingness of African nations to embrace next-generation transportation solutions. With over 73,000 safe flights completed globally and a presence in 21 countries across five continents, EHang’s African debut underscores its leadership in the rapidly expanding eVTOL market, which is projected to reach $39 billion by 2033.
The demonstration flight, conducted in collaboration with China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), signals significant potential for transforming transportation infrastructure in Africa. The continent’s unique geographical and economic challenges have historically limited ground-based mobility solutions, making aerial alternatives particularly attractive. EHang’s achievement not only demonstrates the viability of pilotless eVTOL operations but also positions Africa as an emerging frontier for advanced air mobility.
The landmark flight took place at the Kigali Convention Centre during the 9th Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition. Organized in partnership with CRBC and supported by the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA), this event marked the first time a pilotless eVTOL aircraft carried human passengers in Africa. The significance of this demonstration extends beyond technological prowess; it signals a new era of urban mobility for the continent.
The event was attended by dignitaries such as President Paul Kagame, Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore, RCAA Director General Silas Udahemuka, and Chinese Ambassador Wenqi Gao. Their presence underscored Rwanda’s commitment to innovative transportation technologies and set a precedent for regulatory support in the region. The participation of these officials also highlighted Rwanda’s ambition to become a regional leader in advanced air mobility.
Over 50 countries were represented by aviation professionals and journalists at the summit, reflecting the global significance of EHang’s accomplishment. The first passengers included RCAA staff and China Media Group reporters, reinforcing regulatory confidence and media interest. EHang’s Chief Engineer, Rucheng Lu, accompanied the flights, providing technical oversight and emphasizing the company’s focus on safety and excellence.
“This demonstration is more than a technological milestone, it’s a proof of concept for deploying advanced air mobility in diverse regulatory and geographical environments.”
Rwanda’s active participation in this milestone aligns with its broader strategy to foster innovation and address mobility challenges through aerial solutions. The event’s success, backed by governmental support, lays the groundwork for future commercial operations and regulatory framework development in Africa.
The EH216-S, EHang’s flagship eVTOL, is a two-passenger aircraft designed for fully autonomous operation. The aircraft’s sensor suite enables real-time weather assessment and obstacle avoidance, eliminating the need for a pilot onboard. This approach not only simplifies operations but also reduces training requirements and operational costs.
Key technical specifications of the EH216-S include a maximum speed of 130 km/h, operational altitude up to 3,000 meters, and a practical range of approximately 30 kilometers with a flight duration of around 25 minutes. These parameters make the EH216-S ideal for short-range urban transport, sightseeing, and point-to-point connectivity in metropolitan areas. The propulsion system consists of 16 independent electric motors mounted on eight arms, each driving a separate propeller. This distributed propulsion architecture enhances redundancy and safety, allowing continued flight even if multiple motors or propellers fail. The aircraft’s 12-pack lithium-ion battery system can be fully recharged in about 120 minutes, and the maximum takeoff weight is 620 kilograms.
“The EH216-S’s autonomous flight capabilities and distributed propulsion system set it apart from traditional helicopters and many competing eVTOL designs.”
EHang’s focus on autonomy is a significant differentiator in the eVTOL sector, where many competitors still rely on piloted or semi-autonomous systems. The company’s technological maturity is further validated by its comprehensive regulatory certifications, positioning it at the forefront of the industry.
EHang’s partnerships with CRBC is a cornerstone of its international expansion strategy. CRBC’s operations in over 70 countries provide EHang with immediate access to new markets and established infrastructure development expertise. This collaboration goes beyond sales, encompassing the joint development of scenario-based applications and support for necessary ground infrastructure such as vertiports and charging stations.
CRBC acts as a sales agent in overseas markets, leveraging its local relationships and knowledge to facilitate EHang’s market entry. The partnership is designed to address both technological and regulatory challenges, ensuring that eVTOL deployment aligns with local market conditions.
The Rwanda demonstration exemplifies the partnership’s effectiveness. CRBC’s presence in Africa and its strong ties with local governments enabled the successful organization of the historic flight. This model of leveraging infrastructure partners for market expansion may provide EHang with a competitive advantage in regions where local expertise is crucial.
“CRBC’s extensive overseas network and infrastructure expertise are instrumental in supporting EHang’s global ambitions and the growth of the low-altitude economy sector.”
The global eVTOL market is projected to grow from $1.7 billion in 2023 to $39 billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate of 36.8%. This rapid expansion is driven by urbanization, congestion, and the demand for sustainable transportation. North America currently leads the market, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific, but Africa is emerging as a promising region due to its unique transportation challenges.
Urban congestion data highlights the severity of mobility issues: London residents lose 226 hours annually to traffic, New Yorkers 196 hours, and Johannesburg residents 112 hours. eVTOLs offer a solution by providing point-to-point connectivity that bypasses ground-based bottlenecks, particularly in regions with limited infrastructure.
Projections suggest that by 2045, a fleet of 30,000 eVTOLs could transport three billion passengers annually, generating $280 billion in revenue. Key applications include urban transport, airport shuttles, tourism, medical services, and cargo operations, reflecting the versatility and economic potential of the technology. EHang’s Q2 2025 financial results reflect strong momentum, with revenues reaching RMB 147.2 million (US$20.5 million), a 44.2% year-over-year increase. The company delivered 68 EH216 series aircraft in the quarter, up from 11 in Q1, and maintained a robust gross margin of 62.6%. Cash and equivalents totaled RMB 1.15 billion (US$160.5 million), providing ample resources for continued R&D and expansion.
Operationally, EHang completed more than 10,000 safe flights in the first half of 2025, with commercial trials underway in Guangzhou and Hefei. Strategic partnerships with Gotion High-Tech (for battery technology) and Minth Group (for lightweight structures and smart cockpits) further enhance EHang’s technological edge.
The company has adjusted its 2025 revenue guidance to RMB 500 million, prioritizing customer support and operational excellence as it scales up for future growth.
“EHang’s strong financial performance, high gross margins, and strategic partnerships position it for long-term sustainability and market leadership.”
EHang is the world’s first eVTOL manufacturers to obtain the full suite of regulatory certifications for commercial passenger operations, including type certificate, standard airworthiness certificate, production certificate, and air operator certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). These milestones enable mass production and commercial deployment of the EH216-S.
China’s regulatory approach, prioritizing autonomous over piloted eVTOLs, has provided EHang with a first-mover advantage. The CAAC’s framework includes specific route approvals and designated takeoff sites, with city governments like Shenzhen and Wuhan establishing low-altitude economy zones.
The regulatory precedent set in China may influence other markets, especially as authorities observe the operational safety and commercial viability of pilotless eVTOLs.
Africa’s vast geography and underdeveloped ground transportation make it an ideal market for eVTOL deployment. The Aviation Africa Summit, with over 2,000 delegates, showcased the continent’s commitment to advanced air mobility and sustainable aviation industry growth.
Rwanda’s plans to develop 30 vertiports and supportive regulatory frameworks demonstrate its intent to build a comprehensive urban air mobility ecosystem. The presence of President Kagame and other officials at the EHang demonstration signals strong governmental support, increasing the likelihood of early commercial adoption. Large-scale aviation infrastructure projects, such as Ethiopian Airlines’ new airport in Bishoftu, complement eVTOL deployment by creating hubs for first- and last-mile aerial connectivity.
EHang’s success in Africa could catalyze broader international adoption of autonomous eVTOL technology. The continent’s infrastructure gaps and challenging geography create compelling use cases for aerial mobility, potentially leapfrogging traditional transportation development.
The company’s expanding footprint, comprehensive regulatory certifications, and strategic partnerships provide a strong foundation for global growth. EHang’s experience in diverse environments enhances its credibility and ability to secure regulatory approvals elsewhere.
The economic impact of eVTOL deployment in Africa extends beyond transportation, stimulating sectors such as tourism, logistics, and emergency services. Infrastructure investments in vertiports and maintenance facilities will generate jobs and foster technology transfer.
“Africa’s embrace of eVTOL technology could serve as a model for leapfrogging traditional infrastructure challenges and accelerating economic development.”
EHang’s historic pilotless eVTOL flight in Rwanda marks a transformative milestone for both the company and the broader urban air mobility industry. The event validates the technical maturity of autonomous flight and signals Africa’s readiness to adopt innovative transportation solutions. With strong governmental support, comprehensive regulatory achievements, and a robust financial position, EHang is well-positioned to lead the next phase of global eVTOL adoption.
Looking ahead, the convergence of technological innovation, strategic innovation, and favorable market conditions creates compelling opportunities for EHang and the wider industry. Africa’s proactive approach to urban air mobility, combined with EHang’s leadership, may set the stage for a new era of connected, sustainable, and accessible transportation worldwide.
What is an eVTOL? Why is EHang’s flight in Rwanda significant? What are the main technical features of the EH216-S? How does EHang ensure flight safety? What is the projected size of the global eVTOL market?
EHang’s Historic Achievement: First Pilotless Human-Carrying eVTOL Flight in Africa Marks New Era for Urban Air Mobility
Historic Achievement in Rwanda
EHang’s Technology and Aircraft Specifications
Strategic Partnership and Market Expansion
Collaboration with China Road and Bridge Corporation
Market Context and Industry Growth
Financial Performance and Regulatory Milestones
Financial Results and Business Operations
Regulatory Achievements
African Aviation Infrastructure and Future Prospects
Infrastructure Development in Africa
Future Implications and Economic Impact
Conclusion
FAQ
An eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) is an aircraft that uses electric power to take off, hover, and land vertically, typically designed for urban air mobility and short-distance travel.
It is the first pilotless, human-carrying eVTOL flight in Africa, demonstrating both the technology’s maturity and the continent’s readiness to integrate advanced air mobility solutions.
The EH216-S is a fully autonomous, two-passenger eVTOL with a maximum speed of 130 km/h, 30 km range, distributed propulsion, and advanced sensor systems for safe, pilotless operation.
The EH216-S uses a redundant propulsion system, real-time sensors for obstacle avoidance, and has completed over 73,000 safe flights globally, supporting its strong safety record.
The eVTOL market is expected to reach $39 billion by 2033, according to industry research.
Sources
Photo Credit: EHang
Technology & Innovation
PsiQuantum and Airbus Partner on Quantum Computing for Aerospace CFD
PsiQuantum and Airbus collaborate on QuLAB to develop quantum algorithms improving Computational Fluid Dynamics for aerospace design and sustainability.
This article is based on an official press release from PsiQuantum and Airbus.
On January 13, 2026, PsiQuantum and Airbus announced a strategic collaboration aimed at integrating fault-tolerant quantum computing into the aerospace sector. The partnership, centered around a joint initiative called “QuLAB” located at Airbus, focuses on developing advanced quantum algorithms to solve complex challenges in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
According to the joint announcement, the collaboration seeks to move beyond theoretical exploration and toward the development of practical, utility-scale applications. The companies aim to address aerodynamic problems that are currently intractable or highly inefficient for classical supercomputers, potentially accelerating the design of sustainable aircraft.
The core technical focus of the QuLAB project is the optimization of aircraft aerodynamics through improved simulation capabilities. Traditional CFD simulations often struggle with the immense computational power required to model turbulence and airflow over complex geometries, such as landing gear or wing flaps.
To address this, PsiQuantum and Airbus have developed a Quantum Lattice Boltzmann Algorithm (QLB). Unlike traditional methods that solve Navier-Stokes equations directly, the Lattice Boltzmann method simulates fluids as fictitious particles on a grid. The partners report that the quantum version of this algorithm leverages superposition to handle particle interactions more efficiently.
The collaboration has already produced a technical paper titled “Simulating Non-Trivial Incompressible Flows With a Quantum Lattice Boltzmann Algorithm,” the findings of which were presented at the AIAA SciTech 2026 Forum in Orlando, Florida. The research demonstrates how fault-tolerant quantum computers could offer exponential speedups in modeling these complex fluid flows.
In a statement regarding the partnership, Alexander Kolks, Chief Business Officer at PsiQuantum, emphasized the transformative nature of this technology:
“Our partnership with Airbus underscores quantum computing’s game-changing potential for the aerospace industry, and our shared commitment to collaborate at the leading edge. As PsiQuantum prepares to build and deploy the world’s first fault-tolerant quantum computers, we are working closely with world-leading companies to ensure they are prepared to take full advantage of this technology.”
This collaboration highlights a distinct shift in the quantum computing landscape from “Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum” (NISQ) experiments to preparation for fault-tolerant hardware. PsiQuantum, which utilizes a photonic (light-based) approach to qubit generation, argues that error correction is essential for achieving industrial breakthroughs. By leveraging standard semiconductor manufacturing, the company aims to scale up to the millions of qubits necessary for fault tolerance. For Airbus, this partnerships is part of a broader strategy to decarbonize aviation. More accurate aerodynamic simulations can lead to lighter, more fuel-efficient aircraft designs, directly contributing to sustainability goals. This announcement follows Airbus’s previous engagements in the quantum space, including its “Quantum Mobility Quest.”
We observe a growing trend of “quantum readiness” among major industrial players. This announcement comes just months after PsiQuantum formed a similar strategic partnership with Lockheed Martin in November 2025. The pattern suggests that aerospace leaders are no longer waiting for utility-scale hardware to be fully operational before investing in software development.
By developing algorithms like the QLB now, companies like Airbus are positioning themselves to deploy quantum solutions immediately once the hardware capabilities catch up. This proactive approach mitigates the risk of a “software bottleneck” when fault-tolerant machines eventually come online.
What is the “QuLAB”? What is the specific technical focus of this partnership? Why is this important for the aviation industry?
PsiQuantum and Airbus Launch “QuLAB” to Revolutionize Aerospace Design
Solving the Turbulence Challenge with Quantum Algorithms
Strategic Context: The Race for Fault Tolerance
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
QuLAB is the project name for the collaboration between PsiQuantum and Airbus, located at Airbus facilities, focused on developing quantum algorithms for aerospace applications.
The primary focus is Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), specifically using a Quantum Lattice Boltzmann Algorithm (QLB) to simulate complex airflow and turbulence more efficiently than classical computers.
Improved simulations can reduce the reliance on expensive wind tunnel testing and lead to more aerodynamic, fuel-efficient aircraft designs, aiding the industry’s decarbonization efforts.
Sources
Photo Credit: PsiQuantum
Technology & Innovation
JetZero Raises $175M Series B to Develop Blended Wing Body Aircraft
JetZero secures $175 million Series B funding to accelerate development of its Blended Wing Body aircraft, with a demonstrator flight planned for 2027.
This article is based on an official press release from JetZero.
On January 13, 2026, JetZero, the California-based aerospace company developing the “Blended Wing Body” (BWB) airframe, announced the successful closing of a $175 million Series B financing round. According to the company’s official statement, the funding will accelerate the development of its full-scale demonstrator aircraft, which is currently scheduled for its maiden flight in 2027.
The investment round was led by B Capital, a global multi-stage investment firm, and included participation from several high-profile strategic partners in the aviation and defense sectors. This latest injection of capital brings JetZero’s total funding, including private capital, government grants, and commercial commitments, to over $1 billion, signaling strong industry confidence in the potential for a radical shift in aircraft design.
The Series B round drew support from major industry players, underscoring the dual commercial and military applications of JetZero’s technology. Alongside B Capital, the round saw renewed or new commitments from:
In the press release, JetZero leadership emphasized that this diverse investor base reflects the broader industry’s readiness to move beyond traditional aircraft architectures.
“The strength and diversity of our investor base reflects the momentum behind JetZero and the industry’s readiness to reshape the future of aviation. This round brings together key strategic partners across the value chain… to deliver an efficient aircraft that elevates the passenger experience.”
Tom O’Leary, Co-founder and CEO of JetZero
JetZero’s primary innovation is the Blended Wing Body (BWB) design. Unlike the “tube-and-wing” shape that has dominated commercial aviation for over 60 years, the BWB integrates the fuselage and wing into a single aerodynamic structure. According to JetZero, this design eliminates the need for a tail and allows the entire aircraft to generate lift.
The company claims this architecture will deliver a 50% reduction in fuel burn and carbon emissions compared to traditional aircraft of similar size. Additionally, the design mounts engines on top of the fuselage, which is expected to significantly reduce noise pollution on the ground.
The capital raised will primarily fund the construction and flight testing of the full-scale demonstrator. This prototype is also supported by a $235 million U.S. Air Force contract awarded in 2023. JetZero has stated that the demonstrator is on track to fly in the first quarter of 2027. Following the demonstrator phase, the company aims to certify a commercial passenger liner, the Z4, which targets the middle-of-the-market segment with a capacity of over 250 passengers. “As aviation faces rising emissions and fuel costs, the need for a step change in efficiency has never been greater. JetZero is positioned to reshape the industry.”
Jeff Johnson, General Partner at B Capital
While the funding milestone is significant, the path to commercial entry remains steep. The aviation industry is under immense pressure to decarbonize by 2050, and with hydrogen and electric propulsion technologies still facing significant hurdles for large aircraft, aerodynamic efficiency offers the most immediate solution. However, certifying a completely new airframe architecture is a rigorous process.
JetZero’s target for commercial entry by 2030 is viewed by some industry observers as ambitious. The “tube-and-wing” design is a known quantity for regulators; a BWB introduces new variables regarding emergency evacuation, cabin pressurization, and airport compatibility. However, the backing of heavyweights like Northrop Grumman and United Airlines suggests that the industry views these risks as manageable in exchange for the promised 50% efficiency leap.
The Series B round was led by B Capital. Strategic investors include United Airlines Ventures, Northrop Grumman, RTX Ventures, and 3M Ventures. Alaska Airlines also invested in 2024 via Alaska Star Ventures.
The full-scale demonstrator aircraft is scheduled for its maiden flight in the first quarter of 2027. Commercial entry is targeted for 2030.
The design allows the entire fuselage to generate lift, significantly reducing drag. This results in up to 50% lower fuel consumption and emissions compared to traditional aircraft.
JetZero Secures $175 Million Series B to Propel Blended Wing Body Aircraft
Strategic Investment and Industry Backing
The Blended Wing Body Advantage
Development Timeline
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the main investors in JetZero?
When will the JetZero aircraft fly?
What is the main advantage of the Blended Wing Body?
Sources
Photo Credit: JetZero
Technology & Innovation
Skyports and Linden Airport to Redevelop Miami’s Watson Island Heliport
Skyports and Linden Airport Services plan to transform Miami’s Watson Island Heliport into a dual-use Advanced Air Mobility hub with electrification and terminal upgrades.
This article is based on an official press release from Skyports Infrastructure.
On January 8, 2026, Skyports Infrastructure, a global leader in vertiport development, and Linden Airport Services Corporation announced a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to redevelop the Watson Island Heliport in Miami. This partnership aims to transform the historic site into a “next-generation” Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) hub capable of supporting both traditional Helicopters and future electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
The agreement marks a significant milestone in Miami’s efforts to position itself as a leader in urban air mobility. Situated on the MacArthur Causeway, the Watson Island facility offers a strategic link between Downtown Miami and Miami Beach. According to the announcement, the redevelopment will modernize the existing infrastructure to accommodate the electrification requirements of air taxis while maintaining service for internal combustion engine helicopters.
This collaboration brings together Skyports’ international expertise in designing and operating vertiports, demonstrated by their projects in Dubai and Paris, with Linden Airport Services’ long-standing tenure as the site’s leaseholder. The project is expected to serve as a critical node in a broader South Florida AAM network, potentially connecting key locations such as Miami International Airport (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).
The core objective of the MOU is to create a dual-use facility that bridges the gap between current aviation needs and the future of electric flight. While specific architectural renderings have not yet been released, Skyports has indicated that the “modernization” will align with their standard vertiport design specifications. The facility is designed to handle current helicopter traffic immediately while preparing for the Certification and commercial launch of eVTOL aircraft.
According to the press release, the redevelopment will focus on several critical areas to ensure the site is ready for high-frequency air taxi operations:
Linden Airport Services Corporation has held the lease for the Watson Island site for over 20 years. The project has historically faced delays due to legal challenges and regulatory hurdles involving zoning and neighboring operators. However, the announcement confirms that final occupancy permits are currently being processed, signaling that major barriers have been cleared.
Paul Dudley, CEO of Linden Airport Services Corporation, emphasized the longevity of their commitment to the site in a statement:
“Our commitment to Watson Island spans more than 20 years… Partnering with Skyports enables us to advance the heliport into a modern skyport, engage key aviation and real estate partners, and help establish Miami as a leader in advanced air mobility.”
Skyports Infrastructure brings significant operational experience to the partnership, having worked on the world’s first commercial vertiport projects. Robbie Ladov, General Manager of US Heliports & Vertiports at Skyports, highlighted the site’s unique value: “Watson Island is an extraordinary asset for Miami and a pivotal location for the future of urban aviation. By partnering with Linden, we are combining Skyports’ global leadership in skyport development with Linden’s decades-long dedication to preparing this site.”
The collaboration between Skyports and Linden represents a pragmatic approach to the AAM infrastructure puzzle. Rather than building entirely new sites from scratch, which often invites intense zoning scrutiny and community pushback, retrofitting an existing heliport like Watson Island leverages established flight corridors and land-use permits. This strategy may allow Miami to activate AAM routes faster than cities relying solely on greenfield developments.
However, challenges remain. The transition from a heliport to a high-frequency electric vertiport requires substantial grid power upgrades, a hurdle that has complicated infrastructure projects elsewhere. Additionally, while the infrastructure may be ready, the timeline for commercial operations ultimately depends on the FAA certification of eVTOL aircraft. Until those aircraft are certified, the facility will likely operate primarily as a modernized heliport, serving traditional turbine helicopters.
What is the timeline for the project? The MOU was signed on January 8, 2026. While specific construction timelines were not detailed in the initial announcement, the partners noted that final occupancy permits are currently being processed.
Will the heliport still serve traditional helicopters? Yes. The facility is being developed as a dual-use hub, meaning it will continue to support internal combustion engine helicopters alongside future electric air taxis.
Where is the facility located? The site is located on Watson Island along the MacArthur Causeway, providing rapid access to both Downtown Miami and Miami Beach.
Skyports and Linden Airport Services to Transform Miami’s Watson Island into Premier AAM Hub
Modernization and Infrastructure Plans
Dual-Use Facility Design
Key Infrastructure Upgrades
Strategic Context and Executive Commentary
A Long-Awaited Development
Global Expertise Meets Local Strategy
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Skyports
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