Published: 24 October 2013

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Dr Obert Mpofu yesterday urged Air Zimbabwe to diversify its operations and consider partnering regional and international airlines to increase capacity to restore profitability.

Speaking during a briefing with the airline's board and management before a tour of Air Zimbabwe headquarters in Harare yesterday, Minister Mpofu said diversification was the way to go.

"We have the best technical services which can be shared with other airlines in the region so it is imperative that we use that to try and turn our fortunes around. Do everything you can to get the airline back on its feet and we will do everything we can as Government to make it easier for you," he said.

Air Zimbabwe, which is struggling with debts of over $188 million, has been on a drive to restore its viability and regain the market share it lost during the decade that Zimbabwe faced economic challenges.

Government has been looking for a strategic partner for the airline to revive its operations but talks have collapsed due to challenges such as a huge debt overhang. Speaking during the same occasion, Air Zim acting chief executive Mr Edmund Makona said the airliner had the expertise and they were hoping to use it to return to profitability.

"We are considering diversification as a way to boost our yields. We have the best maintenance people in the region and we can offer them our services while we are maintaining our own fleet. We want to focus on third party work," he said.
- herald

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