South Africa’s low-cost airline, FlySafair, yesterday began its first maiden flights to Harare from Johannesburg, marking a significant milestone in the country’s Open Skies Policy.
The launch of the new service was celebrated at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport by a delegation led by Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona and Tourism and Hospitality Industry Deputy Minister Tongai Mnangagwa. They were joined by FlySafair officials, led by the company’s executive manager for standards and compliance, Mr. Obert Chakarisa.
Minister Mhona applauded FlySafair for showing their dedication to enhancing regional connectivity and fostering economic development. He highlighted the airline’s reputation for reliability and on-time performance, and expressed confidence that the new service would be well received by both business and leisure travellers.
“The launch of this new service will provide greater connectivity and convenience for our people, and I am confident that it will be well received by both business and leisure travellers,” Minister Mhona said. “FlySafair will undoubtedly contribute to the development of tourism, trade and investment, thereby strengthening the region’s economic prospects.”
FlySafair will initially operate daily flights between Johannesburg and Harare, and three times a week flights to Victoria Falls. The airline’s arrival in Zimbabwe comes at a time when the country is experiencing a surge in tourist arrivals, thanks in part to the government’s successful implementation of the Open Skies Policy.
The policy, which was introduced in 2018, has led to a significant increase in the number of foreign airlines flying into Zimbabwe. From just three foreign airlines in 2017, the number has grown to over 23 today. This has helped to improve connectivity and make it easier and more affordable for tourists to visit the country.
The launch of FlySafair’s new flights is a welcome addition to Zimbabwe’s aviation sector, and it is expected to further boost tourism and economic growth in the country.
