Air Zimbabwe

Air Zimbabwe, SA Airways in partnership talks

News by Air Zimbabwe Gatwick

Update 10 Jan, 2010

Air Zimbabwe Holdings and South African Airways are working on establishing a major partnership, which will see the two airlines increasing capacity and reducing operational expenses by servicing selected routes during the 2010 Football World Cup scheduled for South Africa.

The national carrier’s passenger volume has also increased by more than 50 percent in the last 12 months owing to Air Zimbabwe Holdings’ improved in-flight service and departure time.

If realised, the partnership, which also includes joint aircraft spare purchases and exchange training programmes, would be the first major venture the airlines have collaborated in.

Air Zimbabwe Holdings chief executive officer Dr Peter Chikumba told The Sunday Mail that senior executives from the two companies met in Harare on Thursday and Friday.

The purpose of the discussions was to outline terms of the partnership, he said. “We met the chief executive (of South African Airways) and his general managers,” said Dr Chikumba.

“South African Airways would prove a strategic partner. They are among the few African countries in international partnerships, so we want to tap into their experience.

“The initiative is also part of the implementation of our turnaround strategy, which recognises that partnering with others is placing a sure foot on the path to success.”

Dr Chikumba said last week’s discussions earmarked tourism, staff training and development as well as joint spare purchases among the areas of co-operation.

He said pooling resources together would help absorb unit costs and increase the airlines’ revenue base. In tourism, for instance, the venture could result in Air Zimbabwe linking Victoria Falls and Cape Town.

It is envisaged that the arrangement would better serve both airlines as the World Cup fast approaches. “This avenue was considered during our discussions. We noted that we would not have the capacity to if we worked separately. However, twinning our efforts would be an advantage,” he said.

Meanwhile, Air Zimbabwe Holdings’ passenger volume has increased from 280 000 to 400 000 in the last 12 months. Dr Chikumba attributed the increase to the airline’s improved in-flight service quality and departure times.

He said although the airline needed to do more to restore public interest in it, Zimbabwe remained a reputable destination. He said Air Zimbabwe also boasts a good safety record and world-class skills.

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