Tag: zimbabwe

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, colloquially known as “RGM” or Harare Airport, stands as Zimbabwe’s largest and most significant airport, serving as the base of operations for Air Zimbabwe and operated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe.

The airport’s history dates back to 1956 when it was commissioned and officially opened in 1957 as Salisbury Airport. The need for a new airport arose from the limitations of the previous aerodrome, Belvedere Airport, which faced issues such as a skewed runway alignment, takeoffs over the city center, and the encroachment of high-rise buildings. The government of Southern Rhodesia initiated the search for a suitable site, and in 1949, Kentucky and Adair farms were purchased for the new airport’s construction. Construction began in 1951, and the airport was intended for joint use by civil aviation and the Southern Rhodesian Air Force (SRAF). Although it was initially anticipated to be completed by 1954, delays led to its official commissioning on 1 July 1956.

The airport’s name change from Harare International Airport to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport occurred on 9 November 2017, officially renaming it after Zimbabwe’s second President, Robert Mugabe. This decision stirred controversy within Zimbabwe, as it followed a series of place name changes involving Mugabe, and was met with mixed reactions from the population. In more recent developments, the airport has been in discussions with Boeing to establish a regional hub for Boeing aircraft, emphasizing the airport’s growing importance in the aviation sector. Despite fluctuations in international airlines servicing Zimbabwe, the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport remains a pivotal gateway to the country, supporting domestic and international travel.

The airport’s significance in Zimbabwe’s aviation network extends beyond just passenger travel, as it hosts the headquarters of Air Zimbabwe and the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe. The strategic location and ongoing developments at this airport underscore its importance as a vital hub in Zimbabwe’s transportation infrastructure.

Victoria Falls Airport, situated 18 kilometers south of the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, is a vital gateway that serves the thriving tourism industry in the region. The airport’s strategic location makes it a crucial point of entry for travelers from all over the world who come to witness the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls.

In a significant development for the airport, the Exim Bank of China extended a substantial $150 million loan in April 2013. This financial injection was designated for critical airport infrastructure enhancements, including the construction of a new runway, taxiways, and a modern terminal. These improvements were aimed at substantially increasing the airport’s capacity, raising it from serving 500,000 passengers annually to accommodating a whopping 1.7 million passengers.

Victoria Falls Airport boasts a wide range of services and facilities to cater to travelers’ needs. The airport operates for 12 hours each day and offers a full suite of essential services, such as immigration and customs facilities. Travelers can benefit from aircraft parking, cargo and passenger handling, refueling services, and access to up-to-date weather information. The airport also features an array of amenities like restaurants, duty-free shops, and banking facilities. Moreover, for the convenience of visitors, shuttle services connecting the airport to various hotels and destinations in town are available. For travelers seeking local expertise and tourism information, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority maintains an office right on the airport premises, providing assistance and insights for an enriching experience in Victoria Falls.

Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, formerly known as Bulawayo International Airport, is a key aviation hub located just 25 kilometers outside the vibrant city of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. This airport, an integral part of the country’s air travel infrastructure, was renamed in honor of the late Dr. Joshua Nkomo in 2001. Dr. Nkomo was a revered figure who founded the Zimbabwe African People’s Union and served as a Vice President of the Zimbabwe Government.

With a primary focus on serving the bustling Bulawayo region, Joshua Nkomo International Airport plays a pivotal role in the country’s air travel network. The airport ensures seamless connectivity and convenient access to this dynamic part of Zimbabwe, paralleling the flight traffic seen at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in the capital city.

Joshua Nkomo International Airport is a bustling facility, operating for 16 hours each day to cater to the needs of travelers. This accessibility includes immigration and customs services within the airport’s operating hours. The airport provides a comprehensive range of services, from aircraft parking to efficient cargo and passenger handling. Travelers are well-served with diverse amenities, encompassing dining options, shopping opportunities, accommodation services, banking facilities, car parking, car rental services, and convenient shuttle connections. A significant milestone in the airport’s development was the inauguration of its new terminal on 1st November 2013, further enhancing the travel experience for visitors to Bulawayo and the surrounding region.