Air Zimbabwe's Harare–London Route Records 1,479 Bookings Ahead of Maiden Flight
By Southerton Business Times Reporter | HARARE
Air Zimbabwe's long-awaited direct Harare–London Gatwick service has received a strong market response, with 1,479 passengers already booking seats ahead of the inaugural flight scheduled for 22 July 2026, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has announced.
Speaking during the official unveiling of the airline's 302-seat Airbus A330-300 at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, Mhona said the early bookings demonstrate renewed confidence in Zimbabwe's national carrier as it returns to the United Kingdom after a 15-year absence.
"The response from the market has been exceptionally encouraging. Within a remarkably short period following the announcement of this route, Air Zimbabwe has already recorded 1,479 confirmed passenger bookings—an extraordinary expression of confidence," Mhona said.
He added that the route has also attracted strong demand from the freight sector.
"The cargo market has responded equally positively. Already, more than 40 tonnes of cargo have been confirmed for this route, demonstrating the enormous commercial opportunities presented by direct connectivity."
The latest figure updates an earlier estimate of 30 tonnes, indicating growing demand ahead of the inaugural service.
Air Zimbabwe will operate the Harare–London Gatwick route three times a week, with departures from Harare on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays, while return flights from London will leave on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The airline is operating the service using a leased Airbus A330-300 with 302 seats, comprising 30 business-class and 272 economy-class seats.
The aircraft has been secured through a 13-month Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) wet lease agreement with Spanish carrier Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas, which will provide the aircraft, flight crew, maintenance and insurance. Air Zimbabwe will remain responsible for ticket sales, passenger services and commercial operations.
Mhona described the restoration of direct flights between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom as a major milestone for the country's aviation sector and economic diplomacy.
"The Harare-London route is no longer an aspiration; it is operational. It is here and it is a watershed moment for our nation."
He said the route would strengthen links with Zimbabweans living in the UK and Europe while creating new opportunities for investment, tourism and international business.
"For Zimbabweans living and working in the United Kingdom and Europe, this route restores access home. For investors, entrepreneurs and government officials, it opens direct pathways to capital, partnerships and international engagement."
The minister added that direct flights would also make it easier for international tourists to visit Zimbabwe's attractions, including Victoria Falls, national parks and cultural heritage sites, without relying on connecting services through regional and Middle Eastern hubs.
The revival of the London route forms part of broader efforts to rebuild Air Zimbabwe's international network following years of financial restructuring and fleet renewal initiatives supported by the Mutapa Investment Fund, chaired by John Mangudya. The inaugural flight is expected to depart Harare on 22 July and arrive at London Gatwick Airport the following day, marking Air Zimbabwe's official return to one of its most important international destinations.
Air Zimbabwe Harare London flights
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