Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve
Victoria Falls Bureau
ZIMBABWE has signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with the Kingdom of Eswatini in a move set to enhance regional connectivity and economic cooperation.
The agreement paves the way for improved air transport links between the two countries, promoting trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
The agreement was signed by the civil aviation authorities of both nations at the recently held African Indian Ocean (AFI) Aviation Week in Victoria Falls.
It marks a significant step in strengthening ties between Zimbabwe and Eswatini, aligning with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 for integrated transport networks.
The deal establishes a legal framework for scheduled air services, allowing designated airlines from both countries to operate freely between Zimbabwe and Eswatini.
It also grants key traffic rights, including the ability to extend services beyond their territories under fifth freedom rights — particularly beneficial for cargo operations.
In an interview, the Director-General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ), Mr George Mashababe, hailed the agreement as a milestone for regional aviation.
“A Bilateral Air Services Agreement provides for scheduled air services between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of Zimbabwe. It creates a platform for airlines to freely conduct business. It also facilitates cooperation in aviation between our two countries, including charter services and related matters,” he said.
Mr Mashababe noted that the agreement would stimulate business for airlines operating between the two nations while formalising existing relations.
“At present, Eswatini Airways, the royal airline of Eswatini, already flies into Zimbabwe. This agreement further regularises those operations and opens the door for expanded services, including to other countries under fifth freedom or other applicable traffic rights,” he said.
The BASA outlines several key provisions to facilitate seamless air travel and economic benefits, including unrestricted frequency and capacity.
Under Article 8(3), there are no limits on the number of flights or capacity offered on air services linking any intra-African city pair between the contracting parties. This allows airlines to operate as many flights as are commercially viable, significantly boosting connectivity.
The agreement also permits designated airlines to exercise full third, fourth, and fifth freedom rights within Africa for passenger, cargo, and mail operations.
Cargo carriers are granted even broader seventh freedom rights within Africa and beyond.
Furthermore, the agreement ensures fair competition and non-discrimination.
Article 8(1) guarantees equitable treatment for airlines and prohibits discriminatory practices that could undermine competition.
Article 10 allows airlines to set fares based on market forces, with minimal government interference — ensuring competitive pricing for travellers.
Both nations have also committed to upholding international safety standards (Article 16) and combating unlawful interference (Article 17), reinforcing passenger confidence and operational integrity.
Mr Mashababe said the agreement is expected to stimulate trade and tourism by reducing logistical barriers.
Destinations such as Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls and Eswatini’s scenic landscapes stand to benefit from increased air traffic, while businesses will enjoy smoother cargo operations.
With the agreement now in force, airlines from both countries can expand their routes. Eswatini Airways, already operating in Zimbabwe, may introduce new destinations, while Zimbabwean carriers could explore opportunities in Eswatini and beyond under fifth freedom rights.
Meanwhile, CAAZ has also signed a Management Service Agreement with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), further strengthening Zimbabwe’s commitment to global aviation standards.
Peter Tanyanyiwa