The Policy Monitoring and Research Centre (PMRC) says revamping of the Zambia Airways will increase air service levels and increase route competition resulting in lower fares.
According to the PMRC Analysis Report on the revamping of the Zambia Airways, the center says the airline once operational will facilitate the flow of investment, trade and tourism, which will contribute to the socio-economic growth of the country and the region.
PMRC Executive Director Bernadette Deka says revamping of Zambia Airways will also create employment for the majority of Zambians.
Ms Deka adds that the new infrastructure improvements of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Zambia’s central location and good corporate governance, Zambia Airways has the potential of thriving and becoming independent.
Ms Deka however says that the airline risks making loses if the business strategy is not suitable citing the case with Malawi Airline that was relaunched.
“Projection by International Air Transport Association -IATA indicate that Africa’s airlines are expected to make a combined loss of $100 million in 2018,” she said.
She adds that debt repayments may affect the ability to save money for the airline.
Ms Deka says the new strategy should be shielded from abuse as was the case previously with Zambia Airways.

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