Zimbabwe Sets Plan to Strengthen Aviation Through New Air Zimbabwe Fleet and JM Nkomo Airport Upgrade

Zimbabwe is preparing for major improvements in its aviation sector. Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development Felix Mhona announced that Air Zimbabwe will acquire new aircraft and resume flights on the Bulawayo route. He also confirmed that Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport in Bulawayo will undergo a significant upgrade to support growing traffic and tourism demand.

Mhona made the announcements in Parliament while addressing questions on the state of the country’s aviation infrastructure. He said Air Zimbabwe is working with the Mutapa Investment Fund on a programme to raise funds for new planes. The goal is to equip the national carrier to serve domestic and regional routes with reliable aircraft.

He told the Senate that Air Zimbabwe is preparing to resume flights on the Bulawayo route in the coming week. The airline is securing smaller aircraft to improve local and regional connectivity. Mhona said government is already engaging Treasury to finalise the financial support needed for the new fleet. He added that these developments will take shape in the coming year as part of a broader plan to strengthen the national carrier.

Addressing concerns about Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, Mhona confirmed that the facility will receive major infrastructure improvements. The runway will be widened, extended, and resurfaced with an asphalt overlay to meet improved operational standards. The airport is an important access point for tourism areas such as Matobo and Victoria Falls, and the upgrade aims to support rising traffic.

Mhona said the current condition of the airport is functional but requires timely maintenance and investment as travel numbers continue to grow. He noted that traffic has increased sharply, which makes upgrades essential for safety and service quality.

The announcements reflect Zimbabwe’s focus on improving transport infrastructure to support tourism, trade, and economic activity. Air Zimbabwe’s new fleet and the upgrade of JM Nkomo Airport are expected to boost confidence in the aviation sector and improve connectivity for local and international travellers.