‘CRIPPLING’ government restrictions have forced Nyasa Express in Malawi to close all its aviation operations by the end of April 2006, says the airline. Nyasa Express had initially hoped to fill gaps in the existing regional network by offering scheduled services linking fast growing tourism areas like Zambia’s Luangwa Valley and the Quirimbas Archipelago in Mozambique to Lilongwe. Instead, the Malawi Ministry of Transport and Public Works has issued a permit restricting the airline’s operations to the domestic market. International reaction to the announcement that Nyasa will not be able to operate the proposed schedule has been negative and reflects poorly on efforts to encourage growth in the tourism sector, says md, Rob McConaghy. “We are obviously concerned that our proposed operation has not been well received by government and had hoped that air links to areas such as Mzuzu, Likoma Island, Harare, Tete, Pemba and Mfuwe would have been viewed as a positive contribution to the growth of the aviation sector,” said McConaghy. Nyasa Express will ensure alternative arrangements are made to accommodate passengers holding confirmed reservations on charter flights at its expense. Natalia Thomson (natalia@nowmedia.co.za)
Comments | 0
