Kenya Airways signs deal to purchase 40 electric flying taxis

Eve, an Eve Holding, Inc. subsidiary, and Fahari Aviation, a Kenya Airways subsidiary, have inked a Letter of Intent (LOI) for the purchase of up to 40 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles.

The agreement calls for coordinated research through a working group to build and scale the UAM market as well as a commercial model for cargo drone operations in Kenya.

Electric aircrafts are developing as a viable solution for navigating congested urban areas, attracting major airlines in the quest to acquire new revenue sources.

Many aircraft designs are being developed for urban taxi services, parcel delivery, medical support, and entertainment, with little military application.

“Urban air mobility is the future of transport and we are honoured to be the champions of this in the region. The journey to realise the dream of eVTOL vehicles in Kenya is on course, and the partnership with Eve is a key achievement for us as part of the strategy to adopt new technologies as a growth strategy for the sustainable development of Africa,” said Allan Kilavuka, Group Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Kenya Airways.

“This is a new chapter of the Eve and Fahari Aviation partnership to strengthen both companies’ commitment to establishing the foundations that will sustainably support the ecosystem for urban air mobility in Kenya. Last year, we announced a collaboration to develop operational models for Fahari Aviation’s key markets, and today’s announcement confirms that it is evolving successfully,” said Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve.

Fahari Aviation has been focusing on innovative and sustainable solutions to various issues such as traffic congestion, sightseeing, parcel delivery, agriculture, and wildlife protection, and Eve’s zero-emission, low-noise, and accessible eVTOL, combined with its global experience, will benefit Kenya’s development of air mobility.

Under the agreement, Eve will work with Fahari to establish its mobility network and the required urban air traffic management procedures and operating environment.

Meanwhile, Fahari will support Eve’s aircraft and product development process, which will help guide the integration of Kenya Airways.

The project is scheduled to begin deliveries in 2026.