AFRICAN conglomerate, Lonrho’s low-cost airline, Fly540, is to be launched in Zimbabwe later this year by LonZim.
LonZim, of which Lonrho owns 20%, will establish a passenger and freight service under the name Fly540 based in Harare. Fly540 Zimbabwe will be part of the Fly540 Africa network and offer domestic and regional low cost air travel.
LonZim expects the flights from Harare to commence early in August this year and the initial aircraft has already been obtained. Fly540 Zimbabwe plans to deploy a mixed fleet of turbo prop and jet aircraft to assist with the development of Harare as a hub over the next 24 months. LonZim has allocated US$3,3m to establish the airline in Zimbabwe.
“LonZim’s mandate is to position itself for economic recovery in Zimbabwe. Quality aviation services are an essential precursor of any economic recovery. Fly540 sees the excellent facilities at Harare airport, and Zimbabwe’s strategic location, as fundamental elements to providing pan-African aviation services,” says David Lenigas, executive chairman of LonZim. Lenigas adds that the airline will develop the necessary functions in Harare to meet current demand, as well as prepare for any significant improvement in the Zimbabwean economy.
LonZim focuses on developing and acquiring business opportunities in infrastructure, transportation, support services and natural resources primarily in Zimbabwe.
Fly540 started off operating as a low-cost domestic carrier in Kenya and has since launched a number of flights to various African countries.
