Eswatini Air Enters Zambia Market


ZTA says new Lusaka–Manzini air route will deepen economic and tourism cooperation, improve regional connectivity, and cut travel time

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia24-- (30-03-2026) -- Eswatini Air has entered the Zambian market with the launch of a direct flight from Lusaka to Manzini, a development the Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA) says will deepen economic and tourism cooperation, improve regional connectivity, and significantly reduce travel time.


Eswatini Air Director Commercial, Mr. Getaneh Woldemichael, described the route as a milestone for both the airline and the region.

He explained that travellers no longer need to make long, often inconvenient connections through Johannesburg, with the new non-stop service cutting travel time from around four and a half hours to about two hours.

Woldemichael emphasized the airline’s commitment to affordability, offering competitive fares to make air travel more accessible.

He also noted that if demand meets expectations, Eswatini Air plans to introduce fully direct Lusaka flights by decoupling the service from Harare and increasing frequency based on passenger demand.

Reservations and ticketing will be available through the airline’s official website, its Manzini office, and travel agencies.

Woldemichael encouraged businesses and travellers to take advantage of the convenient service and onward connections to destinations including East Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar.

The airline said it remains focused on connecting underserved African routes using its Embraer regional jets, providing a reliable and comfortable travel experience while aiming for long-term sustainability and service excellence.

Currently, Eswatini Air operates flights to Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and Harare, strengthening Southern African connectivity for tourism and business travel.


Airline Pros Zambia General Manager, Mrs. Hellen Ngwira Mwamba, described the launch as a strategic step toward improving air access, facilitating trade, and bringing people closer together.

She noted that connectivity between Zambia and Eswatini has historically been limited, with travellers often relying on indirect routes.

She expressed confidence that the direct service will unlock demand and stimulate growth in business, government, and leisure travel.

Eswatini Air has appointed Airline Pros as its General Sales Agent (GSA) in Zambia to manage sales, marketing, and promotional activities, strengthening its local presence.

Ms. Mwamba said her team is honoured to represent the airline and will focus on raising awareness of its services, driving passenger engagement, and ensuring the Lusaka route’s success.


The Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA) welcomed the direct flights, set to begin on 1 April 2026.

Speaking on behalf of ZCAA Director General Capt. Darrick Luembe, Director of Finance Mr. Mulenga Bwalya said the route will boost regional connectivity and support trade, tourism, and investment.

“This direct service is a significant development for Zambia’s aviation sector and reflects confidence in our market,” Bwalya said.

“We encourage the airline to maintain high standards of safety, reliability, and customer service.”

He highlighted collaboration between ZCAA, Eswatini Air, and other stakeholders and reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to a safe, secure, and well-regulated aviation system.

Meanwhile, ZTA Acting Chief Executive Officer Ms. Abigail Shansonga said the route is a strategic milestone that will help unlock tourism and trade opportunities within the Southern African Development Community.

She said improved air connectivity directly contributes to increased tourist arrivals, higher visitor spending, and broader economic benefits.

She added that the new route also creates opportunities for multi-destination travel between Zambia and Eswatini.



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