Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
HARARE — Air Zimbabwe is once again under scrutiny after a recent incident where a 50-seater Embraer ERJ-145 aircraft flew from Harare to Johannesburg with only one passenger on board.
This event has sparked widespread discussion on social media, reigniting concerns about the viability of the national airline, which has faced ongoing challenges related to reliability, competitiveness, and public trust.
The flight’s video quickly went viral, leading many Zimbabweans to express their disbelief.
Despite low passenger numbers, Air Zimbabwe continues to operate the route, while regional competitors such as Fastjet, FlySAfair, Airlink, and South African Airways (SAA) attract customers with better pricing and more reliable services.
“At least they showed a great deal of reliability. I can imagine the passenger had a great experience onboard,” commented user @phalluten on X, seemingly sarcastic about the situation.
Critics were quick to highlight the financial absurdity of operating nearly empty flights.
“Ko just cancel the flight n book the passenger on another airline,” tweeted @stewart_le13503.
Another user, @anesumapys, raised concerns about potential misuse of taxpayer money: “That’s wasting state resources. Wasn’t it cheaper to buy that one person a ticket on Fastjet or any other flight that was available?”
Takunda Tsunga (@iamTSUNGA) provided a breakdown of current fares for the Harare-Johannesburg route, showcasing how Air Zimbabwe’s pricing compares unfavorably:
- Fastjet – $256
- FlySAFair – $244
- Airlink – $247
- Air Zimbabwe – $300
“Before taking into account things like timetables, the potential of a ‘shefu’ delaying your flight by 30 minutes, etc.,” Tsunga added.
User @Ga58194222 echoed the frustrations, stating, “Until they are consistent!! Until they are reasonable with their fares!! Until they run on time every time!! Until they restore our confidence in them!!”
Another commenter, @franknesh20, bluntly stated, “They should just close it. SAA, FlySAFair, and Fastjet have that route locked down.”
A History of Empty Flights
This incident is not isolated; Air Zimbabwe has a history of operating nearly empty flights on the same route. In February 2017, businessman and pastor Shingi Munyeza reported flying from Harare to Johannesburg with only two other passengers aboard.
“A rare privilege for me with 2 other passengers aboard #Airzim flight UM9461. #3Passengers HRE to JNB on Airbus A320, departure delayed by 1hr,” he tweeted at the time.
In May 2017, journalist Audrey Chimwanda shared a similar experience, noting only four passengers on her flight from Johannesburg to Harare. She later clarified that the return flight was nearly full.
Calls for Reform Grow Louder
As public criticism mounts, Zimbabweans are calling for urgent reforms, cheaper fares, and consistent service to help the airline become competitive again.
“There is no business in Harare — that is the truth,” tweeted @century_27. “What’s the purpose of flying from Harare to Johannesburg for $275 to $300 on a Zimbabwean airline? Competing and affordable fares like Fastjet would be better for customers,” added @blownBoy0.
Despite the mockery, some users defended the airline’s persistence. “What’s this got to do with crime watch? At least they showed a great deal of reliability,” remarked @phalluten.
However, many believe that without significant reforms and a customer-centric pricing strategy, Air Zimbabwe will continue to struggle in a competitive aviation market.
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