By Lisa Masuku
AFRICA’S largest airline, Ethiopian Airways has launched its inaugural flight to Zimbabwe’s second largest city Bulawayo in a development expected to improve tourism in the city as it receives more visitors.
A water cannon salute was given to the Ethiopian Airline’s flight as it landed at the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport while a convoy of vintage cars also gave the flight a stylish welcome.
The coming in of the airline’s new flight which will fly four times a week from Addis Ababa to Bulawayo is testimony of government commitment to promoting the open skies policy.
“The coming in of this airline to Bulawayo speaks to the mantra of living no place and no one behind as it will help,the city reclaim its status as an industrial hub,” said Mrs Sinikiwe Gwatidzo, Vice Chairperson of Airports Company of Zimbabwe.
“This historic development in our skies will provide important connectivity and enhance our trade and tourism sector,” highlighted Ethopian Airlines Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Lemma Yadecha Gudeta.
Ethopian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, H.E Rashid Mohammed noted “This is a momentous occassion for the country. The coming in of this flight increases connectivity of Bulawayo with the rest of the world.”
Besides cementing relations between the two countries, Ethiopian Airlines’ growing connectivity is also promoting Africa’s tourism industry.
The new flight to Bulawayo will add convenience to travelers and is expected to activate trade activities in the industrial hub of southern Africa.