Air Zimbabwe’s Airbus A330-300 arrived, yesterday, at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, paving the way for the resumption of direct flights between Harare and London after a 14-year hiatus.
In a statement, Air Zimbabwe described the arrival of the wide-body aircraft as a significant achievement for the airline and the nation, signalling the beginning of a new chapter in its international operations.
“The Air Zimbabwe Airbus A330-300 has officially arrived at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport ahead of the resumption of the direct Harare-London service.
The inaugural flight to London Gatwick is scheduled for this Wednesday, marking a historic moment for the national carrier,” the airline said.
Air Zimbabwe said the return of the Harare-London service reflects the airline’s commitment to expanding its international footprint and improving connectivity for Zimbabwean travellers.
“This development represents more than the return of a flight route. It is a reaffirmation of Air Zimbabwe’s vision to restore its position as a competitive regional and international airline while providing world-class services to our passengers,” said the airline.
Air Zimbabwe said the Harare-London route will not only provide convenience to travellers but also contribute to Zimbabwe’s economic growth by facilitating easier movement of tourists, investors and members of the Zimbabwean diaspora.
“The return of direct flights to London is a proud moment for Air Zimbabwe and for the country. It demonstrates our continued efforts to strengthen international connectivity and support national development through aviation,” the airline said.
The Airbus A330-300, one of the world’s leading long-haul aircraft, offers greater passenger capacity, enhanced comfort and improved operational efficiency, making it ideally suited for the approximately 10-hour journey between Harare and London.
The resumption of the route ends a 14-year absence of direct air connectivity between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom, a development expected to boost tourism, trade, investment and business travel between the two countries.
