Zimbabwe Launches New Airline, RIDA Falcon Air, For Harare-Beitbridge Route

New Zimbabwe Airline, RIDA Falcon Air, Launches Maiden Flight Connecting Harare & Beitbridge

A new chapter in Zimbabwean aviation has taken flight, literally, as a brand-new airline has launched its inaugural service between the capital city and the border town. The Rural and Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) Falcon Air celebrated its maiden voyage from Harare to Beitbridge, touching down to a warm welcome and marking the start of a scheduled weekly service. The launch promises to reshape travel and trade for the southern region.

The inaugural flight was not just a symbolic journey; it carried a delegation of high-profile officials who witnessed the new route firsthand. The aircraft completed its trip in one hour and thirty minutes, landing at Beitbridge at 10.15 am. The successful journey demonstrated the practical viability of the air link, cutting down a road trip that can often take over six hours.

A High-Profile Delegation On Board

Key figures from the government and the airline itself were present to inaugurate the service. According to The Chronicle, the delegation included Dr Micheal Musanjika, the acting deputy chief secretary, and the RIDA director general, Mr Christopher Shumba. They were joined by other senior government and customs officials, highlighting the cross-departmental support for the new air route.

Upon landing, the travelling party was greeted by local leaders in Beitbridge. The Provincial Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South, Ms Latiso Dlamini-Maseko, was present to welcome them. She was joined by members of the Beitbridge community, who turned out to witness the historic landing.

Boosting Trade And Tourism

The establishment of a regular weekly flight is seen as a major boost for economic activity. Proponents of the new airline argue that it will dramatically improve connectivity between the country’s administrative heart and its busiest inland port of entry. This enhanced link is anticipated to streamline business travel and make movement for officials and traders far more efficient.

The airline’s management believes the service will have wide-ranging benefits. While specific ticket prices were not disclosed in the initial report, the convenience factor is expected to be a major draw. The flight time of under two hours presents a compelling alternative to the long and often challenging road journey.