FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WITH PICTURES
OCTOBER 26, 2024
60 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE – ZAMBIA’S AVIATION INDUSTRY: A JOURNEY OF GROWTH AND TRANSFORMATION
LUSAKA, ZAMBIA – As Zambia celebrates 60 years of independence, the aviation sector stands as a key driver of the nation’s economic development. Over the decades, aviation has transformed Zambia from an isolated, landlocked nation into a vital regional hub for trade, tourism, and international connectivity.
Among the pivotal contributors to this transformation is Proflight Zambia, which has been fostering growth in the aviation industry for more than 30 years.
Aviation in Zambia: From Humble Beginnings to Regional Connectivity
Zambia’s aviation journey began in the early 1920s, with key milestones such as the landing of the Vickers Vimy Silver Queen II in Abercorn (now Mbala) and the first commercial jet passenger flight stopping in Livingstone. However, the industry truly gained momentum following Zambia’s independence in 1964, with the establishment of Zambia Airways. The airline was instrumental in connecting Zambia to global markets, boosting tourism and trade.
The closure of Zambia Airways in the 1990s marked a turning point, prompting the private sector to step in. Founded in 1991, Proflight Zambia emerged as a key player in the aviation landscape. By connecting regional and international routes, Proflight has been a catalyst for growth in business and tourism.
Proflight Zambia: Pioneering the Skies for Over 30 Years
Founded as a charter service in 1991 by Tony Irwin, Proflight Zambia began offering scheduled passenger services in 2005 and has since become the nation’s leading airline. Its fleet of Bombardier CRJ jets and Jetstream aircraft now connects major Zambian cities such as Kalumbila, Kasama, Livingstone, Mansa, Mfuwe, Ndola, and Solwezi. The airline also offers seasonal flights to key safari destinations, including Kafue National Park and the Lower Zambezi National Park, as well as regional flights to South Africa’s Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town.
“We take pride in having played a pivotal role in opening Zambia’s skies to more people and businesses. Our mission has always been to connect communities and make air travel accessible to all,” said Captain Josias Walubita, Proflight’s Director of Flight Operations.
In 2023, Proflight achieved a significant milestone, flying over 279,000 passengers—a 64% increase from the previous year’s 169,679. With a focus on reliability, safety, and customer satisfaction, Proflight has solidified its reputation as Zambia’s go-to airline. The airline has also introduced initiatives like Flash Fares and child discounts, making air travel more affordable and accessible to Zambians.
“Air travel is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Our goal is to make flying an everyday option for Zambians,” added Capt. Walubita.
Aviation’s Impact on Zambia’s Economy
As a landlocked country, Zambia’s aviation sector plays a critical role in its economic framework, particularly in trade and tourism. The industry supports thousands of jobs—from pilots and engineers to cabin crew and ground staff—and indirectly fuels other sectors such as hospitality, transport, and logistics. Proflight alone employs over 300 people, underscoring the wider economic impact of aviation.
“Proflight is more than just an airline. We are an economic engine, creating jobs and supporting industries across the country,” said Capt. Walubita. “Our role in promoting tourism is significant, especially in key destinations like Livingstone, Mfuwe, Kafue National Park, and the Lower Zambezi.”
Zambia’s aviation sector is essential for facilitating the export of goods, such as flowers and vegetables, and supporting the tourism industry, which welcomed 1.2 million visitors in 2023. In addition, the country’s aviation safety rating has improved, with Zambia achieving a 74.5% score in the 2024 International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) audit—placing it above the global average.
The removal of Zambia from the European Commission’s blacklist in 2017 further opened international opportunities for Zambian airlines, paving the way for global collaborations.
Government Investments and Future Challenges
Recognising the aviation sector’s strategic importance, the Zambian government has invested over US$1 billion to upgrade airports and air traffic management systems. Expansions at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, along with upgrades to provincial airports like Kasama and Mansa, aim to boost domestic tourism and business travel.
However, challenges remain. Regulatory barriers, high taxes, and limited infrastructure at municipal airfields continue to hinder growth. Stakeholders from the USAID Business Enabling Project emphasise the need for stronger coordination between government bodies to unlock the sector’s full potential.
In response, the Zambian government has introduced reforms, including the Access Zambia initiative, aimed at improving air traffic data and infrastructure. These initiatives are expected to create up to 500,000 jobs, enhance connectivity to domestic tourist destinations, and increase cargo and tourist arrivals by 40%, thus contributing significantly to Zambia’s economic growth.
The 2025 national budget, which allocates K700.7 million for the construction and upgrading of aerodromes across the provinces, further highlights the government’s commitment to strengthening the aviation sector.
“We view these investments as game-changers,” said Capt. Walubita. “The improvements to provincial airports will significantly enhance tourism and business travel, benefiting not only Proflight but the wider Zambian economy.”
The Future of Zambian Aviation
Looking ahead, Zambia’s aviation industry is well-positioned for growth, with aspirations of becoming a major hub for both passenger and cargo flights in Southern Africa.
“Zambia’s strategic location gives us a unique opportunity to become a leading aviation hub in the region,” Capt. Walubita remarked. “Proflight is committed to driving this growth and ensuring we remain at the forefront of connecting Zambia to the world.”
As Zambia commemorates 60 years of independence, the aviation sector’s contributions to job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and international connectivity reinforce its role as a key driver of national development. Proflight, along with other industry stakeholders, remains integral to this progress. With continued investment in infrastructure and policy reforms, Zambia’s aviation industry is poised for even greater success in the years ahead.
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About Proflight Zambia
Proflight Zambia, established as a scheduled airline in 2005, is Zambia’s leading airline. Operating from its base in Lusaka its domestic routes include Livingstone, Mfuwe, Ndola, Solwezi, Kalumbila, Mansa, and Kasama, seasonal safari routes to Chunga airstrip in Kafue National Park and Jeki/Royal airstrips in Lower Zambezi; and regionally to Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town in South Africa from Lusaka.
The airline prides itself in providing a safe, reliable, efficient, and friendly service, and offering good value to business and leisure travellers locally and internationally.
The airline operates four 50-seater Bombardier CRJ-100/200 jets, a Bombardier CRJ-100 Freighter Jet, four 29-seater Jetstream 41 aircraft and one 18-seater Jetstream 32 aircraft.
More information is available at www.flyzambia.com.
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Gillian Langmead at Langmead & Baker Ltd;
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