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Qatar Airways to commence direct flights to Zambia

Xinhua, March 23, 2016 Adjust font size:

Qatar Airlines is expected to commence direct flights between Doha and Lusaka, the Zambian capital next year, a government institution that runs airports said on Wednesday.

The airline, one of the five star airlines in the world, will commence flights between Lusaka and Doha during the first quarter of 2017, the Zambia Airports Corporation Limited said.

Robinson Misitala, the institution's managing director said the commencement of the airline's flights will help realize the strategic objective of turning the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, the country's biggest airport, into a regional hub.

"The step is in the right direction as it comes in the wake of massive infrastructure development currently being undertaken by the Zambian government at all four international airports," he said.

The official said in order to sustain infrastructure developments at the airports, there was need to stimulate demand through introduction of new airline routes and operators.

"Our expectation as Zambia Airports Corporation Limited, is that we will tap into a new market exclusive to Qatar Airways in terms of holiday which will entail growth in our traffic numbers. We further expect that our Zambian business entities will take advantage of the new market and explore new export markets," he added.

The airline, he said, will start by operating three weekly flights using its 254-seater Dreamliner (B787) directly between Doha and Lusaka.

The commencement of the flights will create an alternative option for connection through the Middle East which will ease network connectivity beyond Doha an open new opportunities in tourism and export potential, he added.

The airline is currently in the process of confirming slot allocations with the relevant authorities in Doha after which the airline's schedule will be communicated.

The official further said the institution was still in discussions with Fastjet Airlines of Tanzania and Turkish Airlines who have also expressed interest to commence direct flights. Endit