Air Zimbabwe has marked a major milestone with the return of direct flights between Harare and London, following a 16-year hiatus.
The historic touchdown of the airline’s Airbus A330-300 at London Gatwick Airport is being hailed as a significant development for Zimbabwe’s tourism sector, with the maiden service carrying 84 passengers and strengthening direct air connectivity between the two destinations.
According to Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Zimbabwe on it official X account, the passengers onboard the flight included the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development Hon. Adv. Felix Tapiwa Mhona and the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon Tongai Mafidi Mnangagwa.
Upon arrival, the aircraft was received by Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Colonel Christian Katsande, together with Embassy officials, underscoring the significance of restoring this strategic International air link.
The reinstated direct service reconnects Zimbabwe with its second-largest International source market, significantly enhancing Destination accessibility and reinforcing the country’s Tourism competitiveness.
Following a remarkable 52% year-on-year increase in Tourist arrivals from the United Kingdom in 2025, the route is expected to accelerate Tourist arrivals, expand Tourism business opportunities, stimulate Leisure and Business travel, strengthen Diaspora connectivity and create new opportunities for local tour operators to develop innovative travel packages.
Speaking on arrival the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Hon T.M. Mnangagwa said the restored route will strengthen Tourism , Trade and Bilateral relations between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom and Europe while providing Tourists with a seamless gateway to experience Destination Zimbabwe.
The return of the Harare–London service also expands air access from the UK market, further positioning Zimbabwe as an accessible and competitive destination within the global Tourism and Aviation landscape.
