Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona says the return of Air Zimbabwe’s direct Harare-London service has received strong market support, with 1,479 passenger bookings and more than 30 tonnes of cargo confirmed ahead of the route’s resumption.
The service resumed on July 22, restoring a direct connection between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom after a 14-year absence.
“The response from the market has been exceptionally encouraging,” Mhona said.
He said the passenger bookings demonstrated strong confidence in the route and its commercial prospects.
“Within a remarkably short period following the announcement of this route, I am told Air Zimbabwe has already recorded 1 479 confirmed passenger bookings — an extraordinary expression of confidence,” he said.
The route is being operated using a 302-seat Airbus A330-300 supplied by Spanish airline Plus Ultra under an Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance arrangement. Air Zimbabwe manages the commercial operation, while Plus Ultra provides the aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance.Mhona said demand extended beyond passengers, with more than 30 tonnes of cargo already confirmed.
“The cargo market has responded equally positively,” he said. “I am told that already, more than 30 tonnes of cargo have been confirmed for this route, demonstrating the enormous commercial opportunities presented by direct connectivity.”
He said the service would provide exporters with faster access to international markets, particularly for fresh produce, pharmaceuticals and other high-value goods.
“Fresh horticultural produce, pharmaceuticals, and other high value exports will reach international markets more efficiently; strengthening our export competitiveness and contributing to increased foreign currency earnings,” Mhona said.
The minister also linked the route to tourism, investment and the Zimbabwean diaspora, saying direct connectivity would improve access to the country for travellers from the United Kingdom and Europe.
“For tourists, it places Zimbabwe, with our natural wonders, our wildlife, and our culture, within reach of one of the world’s most affluent markets,” he said.
The route’s return comes as Zimbabwe’s aviation market continues to expand. Passenger traffic through the country’s airports rose 10% to 2.53 million in 2025, from 2.29 million in 2024.Traffic increased a further 7.1% in the first half of 2026 to 1.19 million passengers.
For Air Zimbabwe, sustaining the early demand will be critical as the airline seeks to rebuild its international network and strengthen its commercial position.Mhona said the London route marked an important step in restoring Zimbabwe’s international air connectivity and supporting trade, tourism and investment.
