Harare–London direct flights resumption on the cards

Direct flights between Harare and London could soon resume following high-level discussions between the Zimbabwean government and the United Kingdom aimed at strengthening trade, tourism and investment ties.

Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube met British Ambassador to Zimbabwe Peter Vowles in Harare on Monday, with the possible revival of the Harare–London route featuring prominently in talks focused on deepening economic cooperation.

Ncube described the restoration of direct flights as a strategic step toward reinforcing commercial and people-to-people relations between the two countries.

"We also explored prospects for reviving the Harare–London flights between the UK and Zimbabwe. Improved connectivity will further strengthen commercial relations and people-to-people ties," he said.

The route, previously serviced by British Airways and Air Zimbabwe, has been inactive for several years. Travellers have since been forced to connect through regional hubs such as Johannesburg, Nairobi, or Addis Ababa, often increasing travel time and costs.

The return of direct flights is expected to lower travel expenses, stimulate tourism, and unlock new business opportunities between Zimbabwe and the UK.

"Our focus was on expanding investment opportunities for Zimbabwean and UK companies across both jurisdictions and ensuring that our economic partnership continues to grow in a mutually beneficial manner," Ncube added.

Vowles welcomed Zimbabwe's recent agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on a new Staff-Level Agreement under a Staff-Monitored Programme, describing it as a significant milestone in the country's reform efforts.

"Zimbabwe's recent agreement with the IMF on a new Staff-Level Agreement for a Staff-Monitored Programme is a key milestone in the ongoing arrears clearance and debt resolution process," Vowles said. "The development demonstrates progress in Zimbabwe's economic reform agenda and will help build international confidence."

He also reaffirmed the United Kingdom's commitment to supporting Zimbabwe's health sector through multilateral institutions.

If revived, the Harare–London route would mark a major step in restoring direct air links between the two nations, further cementing economic and diplomatic engagement.