Johannes Simau, founder and chief executive of Flycristal Airways, is turning a personal dream into a national ambition — to make Zimbabwean skies competitive on the global map.

For Simau, aviation isn’t just business; it’s destiny.
“Growing up in a family of travel enthusiasts, I experienced the highs and lows of air travel from a young age,” he said. “My parents, both entrepreneurs, taught me innovation and customer satisfaction — the DNA of Flycristal Airways.”

His spark came not in an aircraft cabin but on the open road.
“I once travelled with cross-border traders who spent more than 16 hours on the road to restock their businesses. That journey changed everything. It showed me how transformative efficient air travel could be.”

Simau saw what few had noticed — a missing middle in the regional aviation market.
“Airlines were either too expensive or too basic,” he said. “There was space for a mid-to-premium airline offering comfort, personalized service, and a memorable experience.”

That gap became his runway. He assembled a small team “of like-minded dreamers,” united by the belief that Zimbabwe deserved better. “Flycristal Airways was born out of a desire to revolutionize air travel and exceed customer expectations,” he said.

Lifting Off

Launching an airline from scratch is notoriously tough. Simau admits the early years were defined by regulatory hurdles and endless paperwork.
“Securing an Air Service Permit and route rights means navigating complex frameworks and meeting international safety and environmental standards,” he said. “It took transparency, teamwork, and relentless focus.”

Now cleared for take-off, Flycristal Airways is positioning itself as a niche regional and international carrier — offering premium charter flights, cargo services, and connections to destinations such as Dubai, Mumbai, and London.

“We’re focused on premium charter and cargo operations, but the long game is regional connectivity,” he said. “We want to give both business and leisure travellers a world-class experience from Zimbabwe.”

Beyond the Clouds

Flycristal’s parent company, Litecristal Group, has interests in renewable energy, mining, and commodities — providing a financial backbone for growth and sustainability.

Simau sees the airline as an economic catalyst.
“Flycristal Airways will create jobs in aviation, tourism, and logistics,” he said. “We’re also investing in training and skills development to empower young Zimbabweans with specialized aviation expertise.”

He believes stronger air connectivity will boost trade and investment.
“By linking Zimbabwe to key regional and global destinations, we’re connecting economies. Our cargo operations will support agriculture, mining, and manufacturing.”

Ultimately, Simau wants Zimbabwe positioned as a regional aviation hub, promoting both integration and economic cooperation across Southern Africa.

Sustainable Flight Path

Flycristal’s long-term strategy blends innovation, sustainability, and customer excellence.

“We plan to expand our fleet with fuel-efficient aircraft like the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 777-X to cut fuel consumption and emissions,” he said. “We’re exploring sustainable aviation fuel and carbon-offset projects such as reforestation to reach net-zero by 2050.”

The airline also aims to lead in digital customer experience — from seamless check-in and personalized service to smart-tech comfort on board.
“Our goal is simple,” Simau said. “Grow sustainably, innovate continuously, and deliver world-class travel while protecting the environment.”

A New Chapter for Zimbabwe’s Skies

For a country still rebuilding confidence in its aviation sector, Flycristal Airways represents more than new routes — it’s a vote of confidence in Zimbabwe’s potential.

“We’re ready to take to the skies and change the face of aviation forever,” Simau declared.

As Flycristal prepares for lift-off, its founder’s journey offers a clear message: with vision, resilience, and belief in homegrown talent, Zimbabwe’s aviation dream can soar again.