Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve,Victoria Falls Reporter
Air Zimbabwe has announced the launch of daily return flights between Harare and Mutare from 8 to 14 September 2025.
This strategic initiative aims to enhance domestic connectivity and bolster the tourism sector ahead of the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel Expo scheduled to be held in Mutare.
The new service forms part of the national airline’s wider turnaround plan, which focuses on expanding its route network and improving access to Zimbabwe’s key tourist destinations.
The temporary route will provide exhibitors, delegates, and visitors with an efficient travel option to attend the Expo and explore the scenic Eastern Highlands.
Air Zimbabwe Chief Executive Officer, Mr Edmund Makona, said the operation is a pilot project aimed at testing market demand.
“We are testing the market, understanding demand, and exploring the long-term viability of this route. If the demand is there, Air Zimbabwe will be ready to make it a permanent feature of our network,” he said.
The flight schedule is designed to offer seamless connections, enabling passengers to travel between Victoria Falls, Harare, and Mutare, thereby promoting multi-destination tourism within Zimbabwe.
Additionally, travellers from Mutare will benefit from smooth regional and international connections via Harare.
Mr Makona said the airline is committed to national development.
“Air Zimbabwe is more than an airline, we are a bridge that connects people, cultures, and opportunities. These Harare–Mutare flights are proof of our dedication to growth, our belief in Zimbabwe’s tourism potential, and our determination to keep the nation flying high,” he said.
The introduction of the flights aligns with the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry’s efforts to revitalise the sector and showcase Zimbabwe’s diverse attractions to the world.
Hosting the Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo in Manicaland this year offers a unique platform to highlight the region’s natural beauty and economic potential.
To ensure a successful operation, Air Zimbabwe has collaborated with key stakeholders including the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ), Airports Company of Zimbabwe (ACZ), National Handling Services (NHS), and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA).
These partnerships have been crucial in putting in place the necessary infrastructure and support services.
In a bid to enhance customer convenience, the airline has also partnered with PayNow to facilitate online payments for pre-booked tickets, allowing passengers to secure their travel easily from anywhere.
The new Harare-Mutare route marks a significant step in Air Zimbabwe’s ongoing efforts to reestablish itself as a key enabler of tourism and economic growth.
As the nation prepares to welcome international visitors to the Expo, the availability of direct flights is expected to significantly improve accessibility and visitor experience.
