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Although the amount due to CAAZ could not be established yesterday, sources said the aircraft had failed to pay landing, route and passenger fees.
The aircraft was supposed to fly back to Windhoek yesterday and the development left scores of tourists stranded at the airport.
In a telephone interview from Harare, CAAZ general manager Mr David Chawota, however, said the aircraft was not impounded, but the authority refused to clear it for take-off since they were demanding payment for services rendered.
“We don’t impound aircraft. The issue was of payment.
“We were demanding our payment and it is not impounding. Impounding of aircraft is done at Government-to-Government level,” he said.
“The airline was supposed to pay money for services rendered. Once the payment is done the airliner can take off. I believe they were finalising on the matter and it should take off any time after clearance is given. This is one of the small funny things that happen in the industry. This has even happened to Air Zimbabwe in the past.”
Online Reporter