Eve Holding, Inc. (NYSE: EVEX; EVEXW), a subsidiary of Embraer, and Fahari Aviation—a subsidiary of Kenya Airways—signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) in March 2022 to purchase up to 40 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. This partnership aims to develop and expand Kenya’s Urban Air Mobility (UAM) sector and create a business model for drone-based cargo transport. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2026.
The agreement also involves collaborative research and planning by a dedicated working group to support the growth of the UAM ecosystem in the country. Eve’s eVTOL features a “lift and cruise” configuration, powered by electricity, designed for efficiency, safety, and quiet operation. The aircraft uses multiple rotors for vertical take-off and landing, with rear propellers for forward movement during flight—ideal for navigating congested urban environments.
Allan Kilavuka, Group MD & CEO of Kenya Airways, stated, “Urban air mobility is the future, and we’re proud to lead this transformation in the region. Partnering with Eve is a major step in implementing cutting-edge technology for Africa’s sustainable growth.”
Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve, added, “This agreement strengthens our ongoing collaboration with Fahari Aviation to lay the groundwork for a sustainable UAM market in Kenya. Our progress over the past year reflects the success of our joint efforts.”
Fahari Aviation is exploring innovative drone applications to address issues such as urban traffic, tourism, logistics, agriculture, and wildlife conservation. Eve’s electric, quiet, and environmentally friendly eVTOLs will support these initiatives and boost Kenya’s air mobility landscape.
About Fahari Aviation & Kenya Airways
Fahari Aviation, a fully owned Kenya Airways subsidiary, leads the charge in deploying emerging aviation technologies across Africa. Its core areas include drone training, operational use, traffic management, and eventually drone maintenance, distribution, and manufacturing.
Kenya Airways, part of the Sky Team Alliance, operates in 41 global destinations—34 within Africa—and transports over four million passengers annually. Recognized as Africa’s Leading Airline in 2020 by the World Travel Awards, KQ runs one of the continent’s youngest fleets, featuring aircraft such as the B787 Dreamliner. With a hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Terminal 1A, Kenya Airways is a key player in linking Africa to the world.
About Eve
Eve is focused on advancing Urban Air Mobility through a holistic strategy involving cutting-edge eVTOL development, global support infrastructure, and a next-generation air traffic management system. Backed by aerospace giant Embraer, Eve benefits from decades of experience and innovation. It went public on the NYSE on May 10, 2022.
Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This release includes forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and expectations of Eve and Fahari Aviation’s leadership. These statements reflect anticipated outcomes of their partnership but are not guarantees. Various risks—ranging from market changes and regulatory shifts to technological development and unforeseen events like COVID-19—could cause actual results to differ. Eve is under no obligation to update these projections unless required by law.
