Staff
writer
Air Zimbabwe Monday took delivery of a Boeing 777-200ER aircraft from Malaysia as part of efforts to boost the national flag carrier’s depleted fleet.
A second aircraft is expected to be delivered in two weeks times, according to Transport Minister, Joel Matiza.
Government is desperate to shore up Air Zimbabwe, which has been operating just one aircraft and is weighed down by debts amounting to more than US$300m.
The delivery of the new aircrafts will allow Air Zimbabwe to resume international routes such as the United Kingdom and China, which were abandoned nearly 10 years ago due to threats by creditors who wanted to attach its aircrafts.
Zimbabwe acquired four Boeing 777-200 planes which had been retired by Malaysian Airlines through the ill-fated Zimbabwe Airways.
But, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration collapsed Zimbabwe Airways which was headed by former president Robert Mugabe’s son-in-law Simba Chikore, and transferred the assets including the planes to Air Zimbabwe.
Speaking after the aircraft touched down at the Robert Mugabe International Airport, Acting President Constantino Chiwenga who was guest of Honour at the colourful ceremony said: “The receipt of the aircraft is a clear testimony that we are taking concrete steps to capacitate our national airline so it plays its role in the economy.”
He added: “I urge the Air Zimbabwe team to utilise this asset for the benefit of our economy at large.”
He also indicated that several players have shown interest in partnering Air Zimbabwe. The initiatives, Chiwenga said were welcome.
Air Zimbabwe judicial manager Reggie Saruchera said the handover of the new asset marks a major milestone in the reconstruction process of the airline.
“Successful turnaround is anchored on shared vision and collective effort from all stakeholders,” Saruchera said, adding the company will deploy aircraft in a strategic manner that facilitates growth.
