Zanzibar airport upgrades attract global airlines

ZANZIBAR: THE Zanzibar government has attributed the growing interest from major international airlines to improved infrastructure and enhanced safety standards at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (AAKIA).

The latest development follows the launch of Airlink’s direct flights between South Africa and Zanzibar, further strengthening the islands’ position as a regional tourism and business hub. Speaking after receiving Airlink’s inaugural international flight at AAKIA Terminal III, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage, Mr Aboud Suleiman Jumbe, said the development reflects Zanzibar’s growing profile in the global aviation industry.

He said the achievement stems from deliberate efforts by national leaders, including President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, to improve connectivity, boost tourism and strengthen trade relations, particularly with South Africa. Mr Jumbe noted that more than 70 per cent of international tourists visiting Zanzibar come from Europe, but said current strategies seek to expand tourism markets within Africa.

“The arrival of Airlink opens Zanzibar to a wider African market, connecting us to 48 destinations across 15 countries,” he stated.

According to Mr Jumbe, the new route marks a major milestone for the tourism sector and is expected to increase the number of airlines operating in Zanzibar from 79 to 80 this year.

“This forms part of broader efforts to transform the tourism and heritage sector, including opening up Pemba as an emerging tourism destination with diverse investment opportunities,” he added.

The inaugural Airlink flight arrived with 124 passengers, many of whom were travelling to Zanzibar to attend the Investment Summit. The airline is expected to operate two flights per week, bringing between 1,900 and 2,000 visitors monthly.

Mr Jumbe also revealed that Airlink plans to introduce a direct Cape Town-Zanzibar route in October, which is projected to increase passenger arrivals to around 4,000 per month. He expressed optimism that the service will attract more visitors from across Africa and contribute to economic growth through tourism.

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Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works and Transport, Engineer Ali Said Bakar, welcomed the development, saying direct flights would greatly benefit travellers between Zanzibar and South Africa. He attributed the progress to strategic investments in infrastructure and the government’s commitment to economic growth. Eng Bakar said international airlines consider several factors before launching new routes, particularly safety standards, and noted that AAKIA meets international aviation requirements.

“The decision by Airlink to operate in Zanzibar reflects growing international confidence in the safety, security and quality of services offered at our airport,” he said. He added that ongoing improvements at airports in Unguja, Pemba and Nungwi are supporting the government’s efforts to increase tourist arrivals.

Airlink Executive Manager for Legal Affairs, Ms Nambita Mazwi, said the airline operates a fleet of more than 70 modern aircraft connecting 48 destinations in 15 African countries through hubs in Johannesburg and Cape Town. She said the Zanzibar service marks the official launch of twice-weekly return flights, with plans to expand operations further.

“The introduction of a direct Cape Town-Zanzibar route will be the first and will open up new travel and tourism opportunities,” she noted.

Ms Mazwi said Zanzibar’s rich history, culture, beaches, quality accommodation and diverse attractions continue to enhance its appeal among international travellers. She also highlighted improved visa procedures, including online applications and visa-on-arrival services, as key factors improving accessibility for tourists and business travellers.