African low-cost airline Fastjet has won the green light to expand into Zimbabwe with a dedicated offshoot.
The carrier was yesterday granted an Air Operator Certificate by the country’s aviation regulator.
The government will now designate Fastjet Zimbabwe as a Zimbabwean airline on international routes to a number of east and southern African countries.
Fastjet Zimbabwe plans to expand rapidly, creating a network of domestic and regional destinations.
Seats will be put on sale today for the first Fastjet Zimbabwe route, linking Harare to Victoria Falls initially three times a week. Fares start at $20 one-way.
Fastjet chief executive, Ed Winter, said: “Adding a second Fastjet airline to our network is an incredibly significant milestone on our path to becoming the most successful pan African low-cost airline.
“We recognised the real potential in Zimbabwe some time ago and have been working hard together with the relevant authorities towards this momentous day. With their support we are now in a position to launch our Zimbabwean operation.”
He added: “In Tanzania we have become the airline of choice, with an enviable operational reputation and market leading fares.
“I am confident that, with our proven low-cost model, we can replicate this success in Zimbabwe.”