Zambia Airways has marked a significant milestone in its journey of growth and expansion as it welcomes a Boeing 737-800 aircraft, a move aimed at boosting its international flight operations.
The latest aircraft, which touched down at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, is a testament to Zambia Airways’ commitment to enhancing its services and increasing its global reach. This acquisition also signifies the airline’s dedication to providing a superior travel experience to its passengers and boosting Zambia’s presence in the aviation industry.
The Boeing 737-800 is recognized worldwide for its popularity and advanced technology. It features state-of-the-art technology that not only enhances fuel efficiency but also extends its flight range. This fuel-efficient aircraft is poised to be a game-changer for Zambia Airways as it seeks to explore new horizons in international travel.
One of the notable advantages of the Boeing 737-800 is its longer fuselage, which translates into a more spacious interior for passengers and increased cargo capacity. With a two-class configuration that includes Business and Economy class, the aircraft can accommodate approximately 160 passengers comfortably.
Transport and Logistics Minister, Hon Frank Tayali, who was present to welcome the aircraft alongside IDC Acting CEO Ms Leya Mtonga-Ngoma, expressed his enthusiasm for Zambia Airways’ growth. He highlighted that the airline’s progress has defied skeptics and demonstrated the government’s ambition to establish Zambia as a prominent player in the aviation sector.
“The addition of this new aircraft will take us a step further in enhancing our local and international aviation footprint, opening up new routes and connecting more cities,” Minister Tayali said. “It will facilitate trade and tourism and allow citizens to explore the world with ease.”
Mr. Cosam Ngoma, the acting Managing Director of Zambia Airports Corporation Limited, emphasized the airline’s significant achievement at a time when aviation passenger traffic is rebounding following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He reported remarkable growth in both international and domestic air travel, with passenger numbers soaring by 106% and 133%, respectively, as of August 2023 compared to August 2019.
“The growth of domestic air travel has been faster than international travel because of local airlines such as Zambia Airways,” Mr. Ngoma added.
Abiy Asrat Jiru, CEO of Zambia Airways, reiterated the airline’s commitment to delivering top-quality travel experiences at the most competitive prices. He emphasized that the efficient Boeing 737-800 aircraft would enable Zambia Airways to explore new markets and reach new heights in the aviation industry.
Currently, Zambia Airways – jointly owned by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and Ethiopian Airlines, operates routes to Harare and Johannesburg in addition to its domestic routes to Livingstone, Ndola, and Solwezi. With the acquisition of the Boeing 737-800, the airline is poised to expand its network and offer passengers an even more exceptional travel experience.
