Air Zimbabwe's London Return Takes Off with Nearly 1,500 Bookings Ahead of Maiden Flight
Air Zimbabwe is reintroducing its direct Harare-London flight after a 15-year break, with significant passenger and cargo bookings already confirmed. Transport Minister Felix Mhona highlighted the route's importance as a 'watershed moment' for the nation, benefiting Zimbabweans abroad, investors, and the tourism sector. The service will commence on July 22, operated by an Airbus A330-300.
Air Zimbabwe will resume direct flights between Harare and London for the first time in 15 years, with 1,479 passengers already booked on the inaugural service and more than 40 tonnes of cargo confirmed.
The maiden flight is scheduled to depart Harare on July 22 and arrive in London on July 23, marking the national carrier's long-awaited return to the UK market. The route will be operated using a 302-seat Airbus A330-300, comprising 30 business class and 272 economy class seats.
The airline will operate three weekly services, departing Harare on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with return flights from London on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The aircraft is being provided through a 13-month wet lease agreement with Spain's Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas, which will supply the crew, maintenance, and insurance. The relaunch restores a direct air link between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom after more than a decade of absence.
Transport Minister Felix Mhona described the development as a watershed moment for Zimbabwe, saying the route will strengthen connections for Zimbabweans living abroad while creating new opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment.
The revival of Air Zimbabwe follows efforts to restructure the state-owned airline, including investment from the Mutapa Investment Fund led by John Mangudya, which has helped position the carrier for its return to international operations.