Zimbabwe has announced that it is now opening its skies to local and international flights starting 10th of September.
The skies were closed in March this year as the country into lockdown to curb spread of COVID-19.
However, as positive cases begin to drop, Harare said flights can fly again but adhering to WHO guidelines.
During a post Cabinet media briefing, Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said standard operating procedures have been put in place.
“Cabinet approved the opening up of the country’s skies to both domestic and international flights effective 10th September and 1st October, 2020, respectively.
“Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been put in place for the reopening of international and some domestic airports.
“The National Guidelines for Aviation Safety and Security have been developed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe to ensure the safety of both the travellers and airport staff.
“These are additional to temperature testing, social distancing, sanitization, and mandatory wearing of masks,” she said.
Minister Mutsvangwa added that “All travellers will be required to have a PCR COVID-19 Clearance Certificate issued by a recognized facility within 48 hours from the date of departure, in line with WHO guidelines.”
The opening of the skies is expected to play a huge role in the opening of the tourism sector, which was the worst hit.
The tourism sector had been basing its reopening strategies on domestic travellers who were being blocked lockdown.
Before COVID-19, the Emirates Lusaka route, included a stop over at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (Harare).
Tourism has been designated as one of the key pillar of economic revival in Zimbabwe together with mining and agriculture.
Economist have also branded it as the country’s lowest hanging fruit with quick wins if effectively supported.
