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Gatwick ‘delighted’ to be UK’s only airport with direct flights to Zimbabwe
By Sussex Express
Air Zimbabwe‘s first flight departed from Gatwick’s South Terminal on Thursday, July 23, restoring a direct connection between London and Harare that last operated from the airport more than 14 years ago.
The service will run three times a week, on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, using an Airbus A330-200 aircraft.
The new route comes as passenger traffic between London Gatwick and Africa has increased by 72 per cent since 2023, according to the airport.
Harare is Zimbabwe’s political, commercial and cultural centre. It also provides a gateway to other destinations across southern Africa.
The launch is the latest addition to Gatwick’s expanding route network, with 11 new routes introduced so far this year.
Jonny Macneal, head of aviation development at London Gatwick, said: “We’re delighted to celebrate the launch of this service to Harare, adding another exciting destination to London Gatwick’s growing network and establishing the airport as the UK’s only direct link to Zimbabwe’s capital.
“The return of direct services between London and Harare after an absence of more than 14 years is hugely significant and provides much-needed connectivity for passengers wishing to travel to and from Zimbabwe.
“We’re excited to deliver this connectivity, and the enthusiasm which greeted the arrival of the first flight was fantastic to see. We look forward to working with Air Zimbabwe in the years ahead.”
This summer, passengers travelling from Gatwick can choose from more than 230 destinations served by a record 63 airline partners.
The airport currently offers 27 routes to Africa operated by 18 carriers, with new routes and airlines continuing to expand its international connections.