Tinotenda Hove -Air Zimbabwe has welcomed the arrival of an Airbus A330-300 at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport ahead of the relaunch of its scheduled Harare–London Gatwick service, marking the return of the route after more than a decade.

In a statement on Monday, the national airline described the development as a major milestone, saying: “The route we all have been waiting for is here!”

The aircraft received a traditional water cannon salute upon landing, with government officials, aviation stakeholders and members of the public gathering at the airport to witness its arrival ahead of the inaugural flight scheduled for 22 July 2026.

According to Air Zimbabwe, the Harare–London Gatwick service will operate three times a week under an ACMI agreement with Spain’s Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas. Flights will depart Harare every Sunday, Wednesday and Friday, while return services from London Gatwick’s South Terminal will operate on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

The Airbus A330-300 has a capacity of 302 passengers across business and economy classes, while also providing cargo services.

Air Zimbabwe said the reinstated route is expected to boost tourism, trade, investment and strengthen ties with Zimbabweans living in the United Kingdom.

“The direct link is positioned to strengthen tourism, trade, investment and diaspora engagement between Zimbabwe and the UK,” the airline said.

The airline also thanked its partners and supporters for helping make the route’s return possible.

“Air Zimbabwe extends its sincere gratitude to all stakeholders, industry partners, government ministries, and the travelling public for their continued support of the national airline. This milestone would not be possible without your confidence and commitment to restoring Zimbabwe’s global connectivity,” the statement read.

The arrival ceremony was officiated by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona, alongside the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbara Rwodzi, Mutapa Investment Fund Chief Executive Officer John Mangudya, and other senior government officials.

Air Zimbabwe said the restoration of the Harare–London route is being undertaken with the guidance and support of the Mutapa Investment Fund.