Dutch airline KLM resumed flights to Zimbabwe Tuesday, 13 years after the carrier pulled out of the country.
The return of the airline to the Zimbabwean market is the latest in a series by regional and international carriers taking advantage of the political and economic stability that now prevails in the country.
Most airlines pulled out of Zimbabwe in the last 10 years following a protracted economic and political crisis which was only resolved three years ago with the formation of a coalition government.
“The re-launch of our flights is not only of touristic importance but a sign of appreciation of the economic development achieved in Zimbabwe under its current leadership,” KLM Dutch Airlines regional marketing Vice President Pieter Bootsman said.
It will fly into the country three times a week from the Netherlands, and combine the route with Zambia.
Zimbabwe’s Tourism Minister Walter Mzembi, welcoming the return of the airline, said this was a huge endorsement of the country’s economic and political stability, and would help lure other carriers.
“Politically, it’s a huge milestone for Brand Zimbabwe, while economically it shows that the world out there has confidence in Zimbabwe,” he said.
Mozambique’s national airline, LAM, also resumed flights to Zimbabwe Wednesday from Maputo, and would be plying the route three times a week.
