Zambia Airways Bridges the Zambezi: Harare Direct!
Zambia Airways is set to launch a new direct service between Lusaka’s Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) and Harare’s Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE), opening exciting new avenues for African travel agents. Commencing June 17, 2025, this convenient air link promises to significantly reduce travel time and boost tourism and business connections between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
This tri-weekly service, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, utilizes the nimble Dash 8-Q400 aircraft, perfectly suited for regional hops. The morning departure from Lusaka at 06:00 ensures a timely arrival in Harare at 07:10, allowing travelers to maximize their day. The return leg departs Harare at 07:55, touching down back in Lusaka at 09:05. This schedule offers seamless connections for both business travelers with tight schedules and leisure travelers eager to explore.
Travel agents can now tap into a streamlined travel experience for their clients, bypassing previous connecting flight hassles. This direct route offers a significant advantage over existing options, slashing journey times and potentially reducing travel costs. Compared to road transport, which can take up to seven hours, or connecting flights via Johannesburg, often exceeding six hours including layovers, the direct flight clocks in at a mere 1 hour and 10 minutes. This time-saving efficiency is a game-changer for travelers, allowing for quicker turnarounds and more productive trips.
The cost-effectiveness of the direct flight further strengthens its appeal. With average fares estimated at \$250, it offers a competitive edge, especially when considering the time saved. While road transport might seem cheaper at around \$100, the extended journey time and potential discomfort can outweigh the initial cost savings. Connecting flights, averaging \$450, become significantly less attractive when factoring in the longer travel time and higher price tag.
Beyond the practicalities of travel, this new route unlocks significant market opportunities. Zambia and Zimbabwe boast a wealth of attractions ripe for exploration. From the breathtaking Victoria Falls, a natural wonder straddling both countries, to the diverse wildlife in South Luangwa National Park (Zambia) and Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe), the region offers a rich tapestry of experiences. This enhanced connectivity opens doors for travel agents to craft compelling multi-destination itineraries, combining the best of both countries into unforgettable travel packages.
The potential for increased tourism flows is substantial. Zimbabwe anticipates a surge in tourist arrivals, projected to reach 2.32 million by 2025, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This growth trajectory, coupled with Zambia’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its tourism sector, creates a fertile ground for travel agents to capitalize on the increased demand for seamless travel experiences within the region.
The Lusaka-Harare air bridge also strengthens business ties. Zambia’s burgeoning economy, with key sectors in agriculture, energy, and mining, combined with Zimbabwe’s focus on investment opportunities in tourism, real estate, and infrastructure, creates a strong foundation for increased business travel. The direct flights facilitate easier and more efficient business interactions, fostering economic cooperation and driving growth in both nations.
Zambia Airways, a joint venture between the Zambian Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and Ethiopian Airlines, is strategically positioned to leverage this new route. With a growing fleet that includes Dash 8-Q400s and Boeing 737-800s, the airline is committed to enhancing regional connectivity and providing reliable air transport services. This partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, a major player in African aviation, further strengthens Zambia Airways’ position and reinforces its commitment to expanding its reach within the continent.
Bookings for the new Lusaka-Harare service are now open. Travel agents can secure their clients’ seats via the Zambia Airways website (www.zambia-airways.com) or through their preferred booking platforms. This direct route presents a golden opportunity for African travel agents to enhance their product offerings, cater to the growing demand for seamless regional travel, and contribute to the continued growth of tourism and business within Zambia and Zimbabwe.
