Air Zimbabwe takes delivery of Embrear aircraft for local, regional routes

Air Zimbabwe on Wednesday took delivery of its second Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft which the government purchased under the strategic turnaround and re-capitalisation scheme.

The national airline plans to use the 50-seater aircraft to service local and regional routes such as Bulawayo–Johannesburg, Victoria Falls–Johannesburg, Victoria Falls-Cape Town, Harare-Cape Town and Harare–Durban.

Officially receiving the aircraft at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona said the latest delivery was testimony of the commitment by the government to improve air transportation services in the country.

“Under the able leadership of Dr E.D Mnangagwa, apart from this Embraer ERJ145, the government was able to clear the outstanding US$1.4 million IATA (International Air Transport Association) clearing house debt in 2023, allowing re-entry of Air Zimbabwe into International Clearing House.

In addition to that, the government has financed the carrying out of the “C” check maintenance of the B767-200 aircraft, registration number Z-WPF, which is now serviceable,” he said.

“The aircraft is ready to operate charters and potential cargo operations once all modalities are in place.”

Mhona said Air Zimbabwe had increased its flights from 26 to 40 per week.

“With this new bird the whole country now awaits the unlocking of more potential by our national airline. As the government, we are hoping this aircraft will bring improved efficiencies, reduced operational costs and growing the airline’s route network as they are eying to connect more regional destinations. Therefore, I kindly appeal to you that when it is time to travel, may you kindly prioritise flying with our national airline and experience the “Zimbabwean hospitality in the skies”, he said.

Speaking at the same event, Air Zimbabwe board chairperson Never Nyemudzo thanked the government for procuring the aircraft.

“To this effect the Embraer fleet shall be used to grow our domestic and regional routes whilst the B737 operates our Harare-Dar es Salaam route and the B767 for cargo and passenger charters while we explore other routes. Additionally, we shall also increase frequencies on some of our regional routes so as to induce demand,” he said.

New Ziana