Uganda Airlines has commenced flights between Harare and Entebbe, driven by increased travel demand. The move is set to boost bilateral trade, with 9,000 current travelers and plans to extend services to additional routes. A welcoming delegation marked the inaugural flight, with focus on both passenger and cargo transport, positioned amidst a competitive aviation environment in Zimbabwe.
Uganda Airlines has commenced operations on the Harare-Entebbe route, responding to an increased demand for air travel between Uganda and Zimbabwe. This development is anticipated to enhance bilateral trade, with an estimated 9,000 travelers between the destinations and potential for growth. Initially focusing on Harare, Uganda Airlines plans to extend services to other routes including Entebbe-Lusaka-Bulawayo and Entebbe-Lusaka-Victoria Falls. The inaugural flight was marked with a welcoming delegation at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, which included key figures such as the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development, Felix Mhona, and Ugandan transport officials including the Honorable Fred Byamukama and Minister of Finance Matia Kasaija. Uganda Airlines aims to capitalize on the substantial traffic moving between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Passengers can expect the return flight prices to range from US$500 to US$600. This strategic move is part of a larger initiative to expand the airline’s regional network while also exploring opportunities in cargo transport, reflecting the growing volume of goods exchanged between these nations. The Zimbabwean airspace is presently served by over 20 foreign airlines that are drawn by the region’s increasing passenger traffic, buoyed by a stable economy and an active tourism sector, supported by the government’s open skies policy.
The introduction of Uganda Airlines flights to Zimbabwe comes amid a rising demand for air transportation within the Southern African region. Travelers between Uganda and Zimbabwe are increasingly seeking connectivity, with projections indicating growing passenger numbers. The move by Uganda Airlines is not solely focused on passenger transport, as there is also a strategic emphasis on tapping into the cargo transport market. Additionally, Zimbabwe has seen interest from numerous foreign airlines capitalizing on its developing economy and tourism appeal, resulting in a competitive aviation market.
In conclusion, the launch of Uganda Airlines flights between Harare and Entebbe marks a significant step towards enhancing connectivity between Uganda and Zimbabwe. The anticipated increase in passenger and cargo traffic will likely bolster bilateral trade, contributing to the economic growth of both nations. As Uganda Airlines expands its regional footprint, its operations are poised to create numerous opportunities in the burgeoning airline industry across Southern Africa.
Original Source: www.herald.co.zw
