Air Zimbabwe Hikes Harare-London Fares by Up to 60% After Flights Resume

By Southerton Business Times | Harare

Travelling between Harare and London on Air Zimbabwe has become significantly more expensive after the national airline increased fares on its recently relaunched route by up to 60%. The sharp increase comes just days after the airline restored its normal flight schedule following the cancellation of a London-bound service due to operational reasons. Under the revised pricing, passengers booking the Harare-London route will now pay hundreds of US dollars more than they did only weeks ago.

One-Way and Return Ticket Prices Jump

Air Zimbabwe's lowest advertised one-way fare from Harare to London Gatwick has increased from US$495 to US$790. The US$295 increase represents a 59.6% rise in the airline's entry-level fare. Return tickets have also become considerably more expensive, rising from US$900 to US$1,412. The US$512 increase translates to a 56.9% jump, making the route substantially costlier for leisure travellers, business passengers and Zimbabweans visiting family in the United Kingdom.

Flights Return to Normal After Disruption

The fare increase comes after Air Zimbabwe confirmed that normal operations have resumed on its three-times-weekly Harare-London Gatwick service. The airline temporarily suspended one flight after Flight UM724, scheduled to depart Harare on 31 July 2026, was cancelled because of what it described as operational reasons.

In a statement, Air Zimbabwe said:

"Air Zimbabwe wishes to advise its valued passengers and stakeholders that normal flight scheduling has been restored. All Air Zimbabwe flights are operating as scheduled."

The airline also thanked customers for their patience during the disruption.

"We extend our sincere gratitude to all passengers and stakeholders affected by the recent disruption. Your understanding, patience, and continued loyalty have been deeply appreciated during this period."

The fare increase is likely to affect thousands of travellers using the route, particularly members of Zimbabwe's diaspora, business travellers and tourists. Air Zimbabwe resumed direct flights between Harare and London in July 2026, ending a 14-year absence from the route. The service currently operates three times a week, with departures from Harare on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and return flights from London on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

While the airline has restored flight reliability after last week's disruption, the higher ticket prices are expected to become the biggest immediate concern for passengers planning trips between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom. Industry analysts note that international airfares can fluctuate due to aircraft leasing costs, fuel prices, airport charges, operational expenses and demand. Air Zimbabwe has not provided a detailed explanation for the latest fare adjustments.

Air Zimbabwe Harare London fares