Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
The national airline, Air Zimbabwe, has announced that the daily return flights between Harare, Mutare, and Victoria Falls will continue beyond the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanai World Tourism Expo.
This strategic initiative aims to enhance domestic connectivity and bolster the tourism sector.
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.
In a communique, the national airline confirmed the developments.
“Air Zimbabwe is pleased to announce the continuation of its Harare–Mutare–Victoria Falls route beyond the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanai World Tourism Expo,” Air Zimbabwe said.
Initially launched to facilitate travel for attendees of the 15th Edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanai World Tourism Expo, held at Mutare Sports Club, the service quickly proved essential beyond the scope of the event.
“As a result, Air Zimbabwe will now operate this route daily. This development reaffirms the national carrier’s commitment to strengthening domestic tourism and promoting regional economic integration.”
Air Zimbabwe chief executive officer, Mr Edmund Makona, said this route has received an overwhelmingly positive response across the board.
“It has evolved from an event-specific service to a permanent arrangement, providing essential air access to the Eastern Highlands,” he said.
On the route information, he said it will be from Harare – Mutare (Grand Reef Aerodrome) – Victoria Falls and operating daily.
“This expansion not only supports tourism but also underscores Air Zimbabwe’s vital role in advancing national development goals and connecting communities across the country.
“We are proud to serve as a bridge; linking communities, enabling trade, and showcasing Zimbabwe’s breathtaking destinations,” Mr Makona said.
Air Zimbabwe has encouraged all travellers and tourism operators to take full advantage of this enhanced service.
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 recently 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.
To ensure a successful operation, Air Zimbabwe recently 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 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.
