ATCL expands direct flights to Pemba Island
ZANZIBAR: THE Air Tanzania (ATCL) has officially launched direct passenger flights between Pemba Island, Unguja, and mainland Tanzania, in what government leaders described as a milestone toward unlocking Pemba’s economic and tourism potential.
Officiating at the launch at Pemba Airport, Union Minister for Transport, Prof Makame Mbarawa Mnyaa, said the move fulfills the Zanzibar government’s pledge to improve air connectivity for the island.
“This is another gateway for Pemba’s economic growth. The flights will make travel easier and faster for residents, including traders, to reach their destinations,” he said.
The new service will operate three times a week—on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, using aircraft carrying between 50 and 76 passengers.
Prof Mbarawa urged residents to embrace the flights, assuring them of safety, reliability, and convenience. He added that the service reflects the implementation of CCM’s election manifesto and the joint vision of both governments under the Union.
Air Tanzania CEO, Peter Ulanga, said the expansion follows earlier route launches to Mtwara, Iringa, and Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo, all of which were well received by travellers.
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“Our fleet now stands at 15 modern aircraft, including a dedicated cargo plane. Seven of these were purchased under President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, giving us confidence to grow our services,” he explained.
Chake Chake District Commissioner (DC) Ms Mgeni Khatib Yahya described Pemba as a “historic island of tourism and economic opportunity,” noting that air connectivity would accelerate development and ease travel for residents and visitors alike.
“We thank President Hussein Ali Mwinyi for opening up Pemba economically in such a practical way. This is a game-changer,” she said.
Air Tanzania, which was re-established in 2002, now operates 140 weekly flights domestically and internationally, linking Tanzania to destinations across Africa and beyond. Its fleet includes Bombardier Dash 8 Q400s, Airbus A220-300s, and Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
