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Nyemudzai Kakore Herald Reporter
Malawian Airlines is set to increase weekly flights to Zimbabwe from three to five to meet the growing number of passengers between Harare and Lilongwe.
Speaking at a function to celebrate the first anniversary of the Harare-Lilongwe route last Wednesday, Malawian ambassador Ms Jane Kambalame said as the two nations focus on industrialisation, air service was essential for trade.
“The introduction of direct flights to Harare was a proud moment for the people of Malawi and Zimbabwe and has given an additional lift to trade, economic and tourism ties, and boosted the people based historical relations between the two countries,” she said.
“As you are aware, aviation is an enabler of economic growth as it remains the main catalyst for regional integration and globalisation because it facilitates speedy movement of people and goods?”
Malawian Airlines commercial director Mr Eskinder Alemu said the increased frequency would cater for the growing number of tourists and traders between Zimbabwe and Malawi. The aircraft has the capacity to carry 40 passengers.
“The response we have been getting from the public is very good, said Mr Alemu. We want to reinforce that leverage by bringing more flights and traffic. Seeing the growth and demand, we are going to increase our flights from three to five flights per week soon.”
Mr Alemu said plans were also afoot for the airline to operate between Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe chief executive officer Mr David Chawota urged the airline to launch flights between Lake Malawi and Victoria Falls.
Online Reporter