By Clive Simanansa
Zambia Airways on Thursday took delivery of its first Boeing 737-800 aircraft, marking a new era for the national carrier.
The aircraft landed at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, where it was greeted by a crowd of onlookers and government officials.
The new aircraft will be used to launch new regional services, starting with flights to Johannesburg, South Africa in the coming weeks. Zambia Airways also plans to use the aircraft to fly to other African destinations.
The delivery of the new aircraft is a significant milestone for Zambia Airways, which was relaunched in 2021 after a 25-year hiatus. The airline is part of the government’s efforts to revive the country’s aviation industry and boost tourism.
The Boeing 737-800 is a popular narrow-body aircraft that is used by airlines around the world. It is known for its fuel efficiency and reliability. The aircraft can carry up to 189 passengers in a single-class configuration.