Eurowings Discover Airline has increased flights into Zimbabwe a move that has been described as a major boost for the country’s tourism sector, which is recovering from the impact of COVID-19.
The airline, owned by Lufthansa Group, has resumed services to Victoria Falls and will operate all year round instead of just seasonally. This move is seen as an indication of Zimbabwe’s appeal as a destination and is expected to promote trade and tourism.
Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe President Mr Wengai Nhau told Sunday News in an interview that the resumption of flights by Eurowings Discover Airline will make Zimbabwe more competitive as a tourism destination. He is cited as saying:
Any addition into the country is welcome because the more options in terms of air transport into a given destination, the more that destination becomes competitive. Competitiveness, affordability, and quality of accessibility are all enhanced as a result of the additional capacity both on the tourism side and on the trade side.
According to him, the direct year-round connection between Zimbabwe and Germany is significant for economic and diplomatic ties, as well as tourism development and growth. This development will also complement the sector’s post-COVID-19 recovery efforts.
The airline is expected to fly into Victoria Falls three times a week via Windhoek and will follow with the Frankfurt-Kilimanjaro-Victoria Falls route in June. The Lufthansa Group Station Manager at Victoria Falls has confirmed the airline will now operate all year round without taking a break for the next two years.
Airport Company of Zimbabwe Public Relations and Communications Manager, Mr Tonderai Mangombe said Eurowings Discover increased flights to Zimbabwe due to the high demand and growing popularity of the destination among tourists.
Zimbabwe’s Open Skies Policy has attracted more international airlines, with over 20 now flying into the country, up from just three when the Second Republic took office in 2017.