Chronicle Editor
Nqobile Bhebhe, Senior Business Reporter
THE coming in of more local and international airlines is testimony to the positive impact of Zimbabwe’s Open Skies Policy, which enhances the country’s attractiveness to potential investment and tourists, an official has said.
When the Second Republic came into being in 2017, just three airlines were utilising the country’s airspace. Now more than 18 airlines are now flying into the country.
On 30 October 2022, Ethiopian Airline will land in Bulawayo and service the route, which connects with Victoria Falls.
Airports Company of Zimbabwe (ACZ) public relations and communications manager, Mr Tonderai Mangombe, told journalists on Wednesday in Bulawayo that the entry of new airlines was an exciting moment for Zimbabwe and buttresses the Government’s policy of backing away from over-regulating the air transport sector, which is a key enabler of any economic development.
“Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, I can confidently say the Zimbabwean skyline is open,” he said.
“We have had a number of new airlines since post-Covid-19. Kuva Airline, a local airline came on board, which means the industry is open even for locals.
“Regionally, we had Mack Air from Botswana and internationally we have Qatar Airways, which also came and Eurowings Discover, which started flying here last year with direct flights to Victoria Falls
“Again on 30 October, Ethiopian Airlines, would be starting its direct services to Bulawayo via Victoria Falls, operating four times per week.”
Ethiopian Airlines is the biggest airline in Africa and its coming into Bulawayo is a significant boost for the city’s investment profile. It would be flying to three destinations including Harare.
“This is a good sign to show that our skies are open,” said Mr Mangombe.
Mark Air made its maiden flight into Victoria Falls from Kasane early last year and seeks to provide a seamless and scenic experience to tourists between the two neighbouring countries. It became the first airline to offer international scheduled flights between Victoria Falls and Kasane.
In April, German airline, Eurowings Discover, flew its maiden flight from Frankfurt to Victoria Falls, becoming the first direct passenger flight between Zimbabwe and Europe since Air Zimbabwe discontinued its flights to London, the United Kingdom, in 2011.
Mr Mangombe said before attracting new airlines it is crucial for them to know the source markets hence their partnership with ZTA.
“Before we attract airlines, we need to know where people are coming from and that is where ZTA comes in. They know where tourists are from and when we attract airlines we target where the source markets are,” he said.
ZTA chief executive, Ms Winnie Muchanyuka, said ZTA and Airports Company of Zimbabwe are working closely to ensure that the country has much access to destinations.
“We have embarked on several missions together and one crucial one is happening on 16 October in Las Vegas in the United States. This is a conference called Route where you go and negotiate with all major world airlines present at that platform,” she said.
“This is where we initiate conversations about airlines that would come to your destinations.
“So as ZTA and ACZ, we have come together to ensure that we have a delegation that will go to the USA to try and get more airlines to fly to Zimbabwe.”
The ACZ operates a network of eight airports, which are strategically located around the country, providing direct and fastest access to the country’s tourist resorts and trade areas.
Online Reporter