Zambia’s Civil Aviation Authority has encouraged Zambia Airways to consider introducing flights to Kasama as part of efforts to strengthen domestic air connectivity.
The proposal was raised during a courtesy call by Zambia Airways’ new Chief Executive Officer, Aman Wole Gurmu, on CAA Director General Captain Derrick F. Luembe.
Luembe said the national carrier has an important role to play in supporting national development through improved air connectivity, while maintaining required aviation safety and security standards.
“Certain routes where Government sees it as a necessity, if you come to us, we can try to find ways in which Government supports that route,” Luembe said.
The comments indicate that government support could potentially be considered for domestic routes regarded as necessary, although no specific support mechanism or commitment relating to Kasama was detailed.
Gurmu said Zambia Airways is pursuing a strategy to expand both its domestic and regional network.
“Our strategy is to expand our routes, regionally as well as domestically,” Gurmu said.
The airline’s plans include the proposed introduction of flights to Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo, alongside an expansion of its cargo operations.
No launch date, frequency or operating schedule for the proposed Lubumbashi service was provided, while the Kasama route remains at the consideration stage following the CAA’s encouragement.
Luembe also assured Zambia Airways that the regulator would follow up on pending regulatory matters and continue working with the airline to facilitate its growth in compliance with applicable aviation requirements.
The engagement comes as Zambia Airways looks to broaden its network across both domestic and regional markets while expanding its cargo activities.
