Air Zimbabwe will operate daily return flights between Harare and Mutare from 8 to 14 September 2025, a move aimed at enhancing accessibility and supporting the tourism sector ahead of the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel Expo. The temporary service is part of the airline’s broader turnaround strategy, focusing on improving domestic connectivity and reviving Zimbabwe’s tourism industry.
The initiative targets both exhibitors and visitors attending the Expo, which will be held in Mutare, the gateway to the scenic Eastern Highlands. By providing a reliable and convenient mode of transport, Air Zimbabwe aims to facilitate smoother participation in the Expo while simultaneously promoting multi-destination travel across the country.
Air Zimbabwe CEO Edmund Makona confirmed that the Harare–Mutare route is being tested for long-term viability. “This service is a pilot, but we are optimistic about its potential for permanent inclusion in our domestic schedule,” Makona said. “We are committed to improving accessibility to key tourist destinations and ensuring that our flights support Zimbabwe’s economic and tourism revival.”
The Eastern Highlands, known for its scenic landscapes, cool climate, and outdoor adventure opportunities, has been a focal point for tourism promotion in recent years. By increasing air connectivity between the capital and Mutare, Air Zimbabwe hopes to encourage more Zimbabweans and international visitors to explore the region.
“The Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel Expo is an important event for showcasing Zimbabwe’s tourism potential,” said a spokesperson from the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA). “The temporary flights will make it easier for both exhibitors and tourists to attend, while also providing a glimpse of the convenience that enhanced domestic air travel can offer.”
The Expo, which brings together travel professionals, tour operators, and potential investors, is expected to attract hundreds of visitors from across the country and the region. The daily flights are expected to reduce travel time significantly compared to road transport, which can take several hours due to the terrain of the Eastern Highlands.
Air Zimbabwe Launches Daily Flights Between Harare and Mutare Ahead of Travel Expo
Air Zimbabwe is also leveraging the route to promote multi-destination tourism, offering passengers seamless connections to Victoria Falls and other key tourist hubs. The airline’s broader strategy focuses on linking major cities and attractions to provide an integrated travel experience that supports Zimbabwe’s tourism recovery following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
To enhance accessibility and convenience, Air Zimbabwe has partnered with key stakeholders, including the ZTA and PayNow, an online ticketing platform that allows passengers to book flights digitally. The partnership aims to streamline ticket purchases and reduce barriers for travelers, particularly for those attending the Expo or visiting other destinations within the country.
“The collaboration with PayNow and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority ensures that booking a flight is straightforward and user-friendly,” Makona explained. “Our goal is to make domestic air travel an attractive option for both business and leisure travelers.”
The temporary flights are being closely monitored to assess passenger demand, operational efficiency, and overall service delivery. According to Air Zimbabwe, data collected during the one-week period will inform future decisions on whether to make the route permanent.
“This is an opportunity to evaluate demand for domestic flights and determine how we can enhance our schedule to meet customer needs,” Makona said. “If the response is positive, there is a strong possibility that Harare–Mutare flights will become a permanent part of our domestic network.”
The airline’s domestic expansion strategy is aligned with Zimbabwe’s broader efforts to boost tourism, attract investment, and improve infrastructure in key regions. Analysts suggest that improved air connectivity can have a ripple effect on local economies, stimulating hospitality, retail, and transport sectors.
With the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel Expo approaching, the temporary flights are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring smooth logistics for participants. Beyond the Expo, Air Zimbabwe hopes that the initiative will encourage travelers to consider air transport as a viable alternative to road travel, particularly for domestic tourism.
“The Eastern Highlands are a hidden gem, and reliable air connectivity can help unlock their full potential,” Makona said. “We want to ensure that visitors can experience the beauty of Mutare and the surrounding areas comfortably and efficiently, while also demonstrating the benefits of a revitalized domestic air network.”
As Zimbabwe continues to rebuild its tourism sector and expand domestic air services, the temporary Harare–Mutare flights represent a strategic step towards improving connectivity, boosting economic activity, and supporting the country’s growing travel industry.
Source- Attar
