Africa Sets Sights on Flying Taxis as Advanced Air Mobility Gains Momentum

By Juliet Akoth 

A new era of air travel could soon be taking flight over Africa’s skies, and Nairobi was at the heart of it this week. Industry leaders, innovators, and government officials from across the globe converged in Kenya’s capital for the inaugural Africa Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Symposium, a two-day event hosted by Fahari Aviation, a subsidiary of Kenya Airways. 

At the center of the discussions was a vision: to revolutionize transportation on the continent through futuristic technologies like flying taxis and drones, unlocking economic opportunities and reshaping urban mobility as we know it.

Inside the packed venue, the energy was palpable as the participants tackled a pressing issue that has long plagued Africa, transportation challenges rooted in limited infrastructure and fragmented aviation networks. But the mood was not one of lament; rather, it was one of bold ambition and readiness to break barriers. 

Image of Kenya Airways officials and partner inspecting a drone.

The promise of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, vehicles that can lift off and land like helicopters but are cleaner, quieter, and more efficient, stood out as a beacon of what the future could look like. 

Often referred to as flying taxis, these innovations have the potential to change how people and goods move, from easing urban congestion to enhancing healthcare access in remote regions.

For Kenya Airways, this wasn’t just theoretical talk. The airline has been nurturing the dream of introducing flying taxis since 2021 as part of a broader strategy to diversify its business and embrace sustainability. 

Initially aiming for a 2025 rollout, the airline now plans to acquire 20 eVTOLs and launch operations by 2028. Delays, as expected with any groundbreaking technology, have not dulled the ambition.

Kenya Airways’ Group Managing Director and CEO, Allan Kilavuka, made it clear that AAM isn’t simply about embracing the latest gadgets, it’s about transforming lives and laying down a foundation for a more connected and sustainable Africa. 

“These initiatives are not just about technology,” Kilavuka said, his tone firm yet hopeful. “They represent our dedication to creating a more connected, efficient, and sustainable future. This symposium serves as a testament to our commitment to innovation and leadership in the aviation sector.”

Yet he didn’t shy away from the hard truths. Integrating AAM into Africa’s transportation landscape won’t come cheap. The continent faces significant barriers, from the need for major financial investment to limited infrastructure and regulatory frameworks that are yet to catch up with the pace of innovation. 

But for Kilavuka, these are not roadblocks, they’re opportunities. With the global AAM market projected to hit one trillion dollars by 2040, he sees a chance for African governments to seize the moment and rewrite the narrative. 

“Advanced air mobility presents one way to bring African governments to change the game and solve problems for the continent,” he stated.

Hawkins Musili, General Manager at Fahari Aviation, emphasized that the dream of flying taxis hinges on more than just acquiring the aircraft. 

“What we want to see is the infrastructure required to enable this,” he said, pointing to the need for traffic management systems, designated landing zones, and accessible charging facilities. “It’s about making sure everybody operates securely and safely.”

The Kenyan government seems aligned with that vision. Mohamed Daghar, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Transport, reiterated the state’s commitment to pushing the envelope on regulatory readiness. 

For Daghar, the focus is not just about being part of the global race—it’s about ensuring that AAM growth doesn’t come at the expense of ecological balance. 

“We are dedicated to fast-tracking regulatory frameworks, investing in infrastructure, and developing a skilled workforce to support AAM adoption,” Daghar declared. “This is a strategic priority for Kenya, and we are ready to lead the way.”

Still, there’s an acknowledgment that Africa must chart its own path. While global aviation regulators like the FAA and EASA have set the pace with eVTOL certification guidelines, Africa faces unique challenges, particularly around sustainability and access. Tailored solutions, driven by local insights and global collaboration, will be essential.

As the symposium came to a close, it was clear that Africa is not just watching from the sidelines. With the right mix of innovation, investment, and policy support, the continent could very well lead the charge in clean, efficient air mobility. For now, the sky may be the limit—but in Nairobi, the future felt within reach.