South African carrier, Cemair, is set to expand its reach by launching new flights to Zimbabwe with the introduction of the Johannesburg – Victoria Falls route. This move comes as part of the airline’s strategic growth plans, aiming to tap into the flourishing tourism industry in the region. The inaugural flight is scheduled for August 9, 2023, and the airline will operate four weekly flights on this route.
Cemair will deploy its CRJ700 aircraft, providing passengers with a comfortable and efficient travel experience. The flight, numbered 5Z764, will depart Johannesburg at 11:20 AM and arrive in Victoria Falls at 1:00 PM local time. The return flight, 5Z765, will leave Victoria Falls at 1:30 PM and land in Johannesburg at 3:05 PM. The service will operate on all days except Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
With the launch of this new route, Cemair aims to meet the growing demand for convenient travel options between South Africa and Zimbabwe. Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, attracts tourists from around the globe. Cemair’s entry into this market will provide travelers with more choices and enhance connectivity to this iconic destination.
However, Cemair is not the only airline eyeing the Johannesburg – Victoria Falls route. South African Airways (SAA) initiated their flights to Victoria Falls in December 2022, offering six weekly flights on this route, excluding Saturdays. SAA’s long-standing presence in the industry and their established network provide them with a competitive advantage.
Moreover, Airlink, another prominent South African carrier, recently announced plans to launch a new route connecting Mbombela and Kruger National Park to Victoria Falls. Commencing operations on November 28, 2023, this route will complement Airlink’s existing service between Mbombela’s Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and Livingstone on the Zambian side of the falls.
The increased competition on the Johannesburg – Victoria Falls route is a positive development for travelers, as it not only enhances connectivity but also leads to improved service quality and competitive pricing. Passengers will now have a wider range of options to choose from, catering to their individual preferences and travel itineraries.