By Jeremiah Gora
Air Zimbabwe has recorded 1,479 confirmed passenger bookings and secured more than 30 tonnes of cargo ahead of the launch of its Harare-London service, in what Government says is a strong endorsement of the national carrier’s return to the United Kingdom after a 16-year hiatus.
Speaking during the Air Zimbabwe Aircraft Reception and Harare-London Route Launch Ceremony at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport today, Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Adv. Felix T. Mhona (MP), said the overwhelming response from passengers and shippers reflected renewed confidence in Zimbabwe’s aviation industry.
“Within a remarkably short period following the announcement of this route, Air Zimbabwe has already recorded 1,479 confirmed passenger bookings—an extraordinary expression of confidence,” said Minister Mhona.
He added that, “the cargo market has responded equally positively. Already, more than 30 tonnes of cargo have been confirmed for this route, demonstrating the enormous commercial opportunities presented by direct connectivity.”
The minister announced that the national airline will begin operating direct Harare-London flights on 22 July 2026 using its newly acquired Airbus A330-300, a 302-seat aircraft configured with 30 business class and 272 economy class seats.
He said the restoration of the route was a major milestone in the revival of Air Zimbabwe and formed part of Government’s broader strategy to strengthen transport infrastructure, expand trade and tourism, and improve Zimbabwe’s global connectivity.
“The Harare-London route is no longer an aspiration; it is operational. It is here. And it is a watershed moment for our nation,” he said.
Minister Mhona said the route would provide a direct link for Zimbabweans living in the United Kingdom and Europe while opening new opportunities for trade, investment, tourism and cultural exchanges.
He noted that exporters would benefit from faster and more efficient access to the UK market, particularly for fresh horticultural produce, pharmaceuticals and other high-value exports, resulting in improved foreign currency earnings.
Describing air transport as a key pillar of the National Development Strategy II (2026-2030), the minister said modern transport systems were essential for attracting investment, facilitating commerce and positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive economy.
He also commended the Air Zimbabwe Board and management, the Mutapa Investment Fund, aviation agencies and tourism stakeholders for their contribution to the successful relaunch of the route.
Appealing for continued support of the national airline, Minister Mhona urged Zimbabweans, the business community, Government institutions and the diaspora to choose Air Zimbabwe whenever possible.
“A national carrier is more than a commercial enterprise. It carries the national flag, promotes tourism, supports trade, creates employment and contributes directly to national economic development,” he said.
The inaugural flight is expected to depart Harare on 22 July, with the aircraft scheduled to touch down in London the following day, marking Air Zimbabwe’s first direct service on the route in 16 years.
