Rutendo Mazhindu
Zim Now Reporter
Air Zimbabwe, the nation's flag carrier, is making significant strides in its turnaround strategy, having paid over US$1 million to key international service providers. This crucial development is set to propel the airline back onto global ticketing and code-sharing platforms, a move anticipated to significantly boost passenger numbers and expand Air Zimbabwe's international reach.
Speaking in Victoria Falls this Tuesday, Air Zimbabwe Chief Executive Officer, Edmund Makona, underscored the airline's commitment to global visibility as a cornerstone of its revival. "We asked ourselves: what’s on the critical path to our revival? Visibility on global selling platforms was top," Mr. Makona stated. "Without it, we couldn’t do code-sharing or interlining. Now, with shareholder support, we have cleared most of the debt."
Makona confirmed that Air Zimbabwe is actively integrating its systems with global distribution networks (GDS), the essential infrastructure forinternational travel bookings. This integration process is expected to be completed within approximately three months, or even less. Once finalized, travelers worldwide will once again have the convenience of booking Air Zimbabwe flights through any travel agent or partner airline.
The re-entry into code-sharing platforms is particularly impactful. It means Air Zimbabwe flights can now be sold seamlessly through partner carriers across the globe, dramatically improving accessibility to Zimbabwe's renowned tourist destinations and, consequently, anticipating a surge in international arrivals. Major GDS platforms include Amadeus, Sabre, and Travelport (which incorporates Galileo, Worldspan, and Apollo). Rejoining these networks will give Air Zimbabwe access to millions of travel agents and online booking platforms globally.
Tourism experts have enthusiastically welcomed this strategic move, recognizing its immense potential to enhance Zimbabwe's visibility and competitiveness as a premier destination. Mr. Clement Mukwasi, a prominent tourism executive, lauded the development as "a big leap in the right direction." He added, "It’s a serious enabler of increased inbound travel by tourists. This new chapter in national colours is something to celebrate. We are confident Air Zimbabwe will become one of the airlines of choice. With immigration now fully online, we anticipate a surge in international tourist arrivals."
The economic impact of increased tourism is substantial for Zimbabwe. In the first half of 2024, tourism receipts saw a significant 24% increase to US493million,upfromUS398 million in the same period last year, with the sector consistently contributing around 5.7% to the nation's GDP. Enhanced accessibility through Air Zimbabwe's renewed global presence is expected to further fuel this growth, bringing much-needed foreign currency and job creation.
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