Business / Companies
Phoenix Air applies for a commercial airline licence
22 May 2012 at 13:22hrs | Views
A new airline has applied for a commercial licence to service domestic and regional routes, in what could result in more competition for the troubled national flag carrier, Air Zimbabwe.
Following adoption of the open sky policy, a government thrust seeking to increase airlines flying into the country, Phoenix Air approached aviation regulators for a new permit.
According to the latest government gazette, the new airline has lodged an application to the Air Services Board.
The news of Phoenix's bid for licencing came at a time refurbishment at the country's two main airports was underway.
Last week, Finance minister Tendai Biti said refurbishment works were underway.
Zimbabwe is expected to register 2,6 million arrivals in 2012. Preliminary figures from Zimbabwe Tourism Authority showed tourist arrivals in the country increased by 8% during the year 2011 compared to the same period, 2010, which had recorded 2 239 165 arrivals.
Lack of direct flights from source markets, according to the Economic Planning and Investment Promotion ministry has continued to affect tourist arrivals.
In February, CAAZ licensed a third private airline, Sol Air, to service domestic and international routes, as competition in the aviation sector intensified.
Following adoption of the open sky policy, a government thrust seeking to increase airlines flying into the country, Phoenix Air approached aviation regulators for a new permit.
According to the latest government gazette, the new airline has lodged an application to the Air Services Board.
The news of Phoenix's bid for licencing came at a time refurbishment at the country's two main airports was underway.
Zimbabwe is expected to register 2,6 million arrivals in 2012. Preliminary figures from Zimbabwe Tourism Authority showed tourist arrivals in the country increased by 8% during the year 2011 compared to the same period, 2010, which had recorded 2 239 165 arrivals.
Lack of direct flights from source markets, according to the Economic Planning and Investment Promotion ministry has continued to affect tourist arrivals.
In February, CAAZ licensed a third private airline, Sol Air, to service domestic and international routes, as competition in the aviation sector intensified.
Source - newsday
