Air Zimbabwe leases Spanish Airbus for Gatwick route

Air Zimbabwe announced it will resume direct flights between Harare and London Gatwick on July 22, 2026, operating three weekly flights. The national carrier will service the route using an Airbus A330-300 leased from Spanish airline Plus Ultra. This launch follows regulatory delays from United Kingdom aviation authorities that pushed back the airline's initial schedule. Industry analysts warn that the carrier faces intense competition from established international airlines operating in the region. The airline's long-term viability depends on maintaining strict operational consistency and competitive pricing to retain passengers.