Govt pledges support to Zambia Airways
By KALOBWE BWALYA
ZAMBIA Airways will receive full support through assured innovative and effective aviation sub- sector policies and strategies which will modernise and return of investment in Zambia.
Minister of Transport and Logistics Frank Tayali said the establishment of the national airline will spur growth in the tourism and export sector and will have a significant multiplier effect on job creation through different businesses in the aviation supply sector.
Mr Tayali said Zambia Airways also signifies improved accessibility to tourism attraction for tourists to ensure the full utilization of the airport facilities and transformation of Zambia into a regional tourist and transit hub.
The minister said this when he welcomed and revealed the first aircraft of Zambia Airways 2014 limited in Lusaka yesterday. He said the tourism sector will significantly contribute to economy diversification and job creation.
He said his ministry looks forward to the growth of Zambia’s national airline that will enable vast natural attraction.
Mr Tayali said his ministry welcomes the relaunch of Zambia Airways through partnership between government of the republic of Zambia through the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and Ethiopian Airways.
He said Zambia Airways is expected to operate six aircrafts and carry over 700, 000 passengers by 2027.
“I would like to urge Zambia Airways to take interest in cargo freight which will encourage exports and will save the business well,” said Mr Tayali. The new Zambia Airways will start operating tomorrow and will be used to connect people and goods as the new wings of Africa.
Meanwhile Zambia Airport Board chairperson Bonaventure Mutale said it’s over 30 years since the airline was privatised, therefore the re launch Zambia Airways will significantly contribute towards making the Zambian economy work efficiently.
