adminThe cash-strapped national airline, which resumed domestic flights in May, will in due course inform the public of the date for the resumption of international flights.
The flag carrier suspended regional and international flights in January after its aircrafts were seized by creditors in South Africa and United Kingdom.
“We sincerely appreciate the anxiety and enthusiasm by the travelling public regarding the resumption of both regional and international flights. However, we wish to advice the correct position as follows; flights to Johannesburg will operate with effect from Monday 12 November, 2012…,” said Air Zimbabwe acting chief executive officer, Mr Innocent Mavhunga in a statement.
The national airline will ply the Harare-Johannesburg route on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
He said with effect from 4 November domestic routes frequency would increase from three to four times a week operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
The resumption of regional flights by the airline would also go a long way towards creating a positive impact on tourist arrivals in the country.
In addition, flights resumption is a positive development for the country’s tourism sector as the country with Zambia prepare to co-host the United Nations World Tourism Organisation general assembly in August next year.
Air Zimbabwe’s market share on the international market was lost to competitors due to a myriad of operational constraints facing the airline.
The flag carrier, which is seeking a strategic partner to restore viability of its operations, is hamstrung with an estimated debt of $149 million, $30 million of which is owed to international institutions.
It is also working on complying with global safety standards deadline that was extended from 30 September to end of the year as Government, which is the majority shareholder makes efforts to ensure full resumption of service.
Online Reporter