Air Zimbabwe pursuing code sharing with leading airlines

Published: 10 June 2013

AIR ZIMBABWE HOLDINGS yesterday said it is pursuing some code sharing arrangements with leading airlines as it seeks to widen it route network.

Acting group chief executive Mr Innocent Mavhunga said the company, which is saddled with debts amounting to US$188 million, was now focusing on expanding the routes after regaining its market share on local and regional routes.

"The airline is in the process of normalising its membership to all important airline support services like the Global Distribution System and IATA Billing and Settlement Plan," said Mr Mavhunga in a statement yesterday.

"In addition, Air Zimbabwe is in the process of negotiating code sharing agreements with other airlines to give it a wide route network."

He dismissed claims by some sections of the media that the national airline had grounded its fleet.
"Air Zimbabwe has not grounded its fleet as reported in some sectors of the media and is actually in the process of expanding its route network in April after successfully regaining market share on key domestic and regional routes," he added.

Air Zimbabwe grounded its planes early last year after its pilots went on strike over unpaid salaries. Domestic flights resumed in May while regional trips resumed in November.

Through assistance from Government as the major shareholder, Air Zimbabwe is also looking at fleet options to increase its capacity.

Air Zimbabwe has been on the verge of collapse in recent years, facing problems including frequent strikes by pilots and mounting debts. In December 2011, one of its plane was impounded at London''s Gatwick Airport over a US$1,2 million debt.

A week later, the airline suspended flights to neighboring South Africa to avoid having its planes seized over unpaid debts. The Government will next week announce a new board of directors for Air Zimbabwe as it moves to restore its viability.
The airline has been operating with an interim board since March last year.
- TH