Egyptair launches Zambia service

The introduction of Egyptair’s first direct commercial flight to Zambia bodes well for the country’s economy while it will also go a long way in encouraging other airlines to see the potential of flying to this destination. The North African aviation giant launched its first-ever direct commercial flight to Zambia in mid-January as part of an ambitious plan to expand its African network. Operating four direct flights between Cairo and Lusaka every week with an Airbus 320, the new service extends Egyptair’s reach to 18 African destinations. The airline has already said it intends increasing this number significantly in the next few years to cover at least 46 African destinations. “The introduction of this service is a very positive development for the Zambian aviation sector, which is showing signs of growth,” says Jonathan Lewis, managing director of NAC2000 Corporation, a privately owned aircraft ground handling and freight forwarding company in Lusaka. “This will allow us to service cargo to and from North Africa, the Middle and the Far East. One of the challenges we have faced has been the monopoly niches in the aviation industry. The new service brings a new dimension that is welcomed.” Lewis says the Egyptair service also encourages other airlines to look at Zambia as a potential destination.