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A new airline, Fresh Air Airlines, has begun flight operations in Zimbabwe where it will service domestic and international routes.
The airline is a 51/49% joint venture partnership between Zimbabwe’s Nu-Aero and One Time in South Africa.
The maiden flight touched down at Harare International Airport at 11:45 am this Friday morning to a traditional water canon salute that is given to new airlines as well as a standing ovation.
Officially launching the new airline, Transport, Communication and Infrastructure Development Minister, Cde Nicholas Goche, who was represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr Munesu Munodawafa hailed the new airline adding that it signals government’s commitment to allowing indigenous players’ participation in the aviation industry, contrary to widely held beliefs.
“I have no doubt that the new airline that will service domestic and regional routes has sent a positive signal to indigenous players. We view the coming on board of Fresh Air in the aviation industry as the beginning of serious business,” said Mr Munodawafa.
Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe Chairman, Advocate Jacob Mudenda said the new flight will help increase the use of the country’s aviation facilities which are way below break even point.
“We expect that this airline will improve connectivity on the domestic network for tourist, business and the general citizenry,” Advocate Mudenda said.
Fresh Air Airlines Chairman, Mr Chakanyuka Garase said the new airline will begin to roll out operations at the beginning of September and is targeting increased access to air services in the country.
The commercial plane that will fly between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls is expected to fill the gap that is currently prevailing in domestic routes around the country.
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