19 airlines fly into Zim

AT least 19 local and international airlines are now flying into Zimbabwe, helping provide greater connectivity and convenience for business and leisure travellers.

Before the advent of the Second Republic in 2017, there were only three airlines.

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona told The Sunday Mail that the current trend in the aviation sector could be attributed to the country’s Open Skies Policy.

“This year alone, we have received quite a number of new airlines flying into Zimbabwe. Further, the existing airlines have added more frequencies to their operations, with some even launching new routes within the country,” said Minister Mhona.

Airports Company of Zimbabwe public relations and communications manager Mr Tonderai Mangombe said 19 airlines were now flying into the country as of October 3.

It is believed that opening up the airspace has enhanced the country’s appeal to potential investors and tourists.

Air Botswana, Eswatini Air and Zambian Airways are also flying directly to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.

“Other additional airlines utilising the Zimbabwean airspace include Cemair, Air Zimbabwe, Fastjet, Kenya Airways, Martin Air Cargo, and Mackair,” added Mr Mangombe.

Last week, South Africa’s low-cost airline FlySafair had its first maiden flight into Harare from Johannesburg after obtaining requisite regulatory approvals.

FlySafair recently obtained approvals from the International Air Service Council and the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe.

It is expected to also service both the Victoria Falls and Bulawayo routes.