ZAMBIA – Proflight Zambia has taken a significant step toward enhancing international travel options by signing its first interline agreement with Turkish Airlines.

The partnership, effective November 2024, aims to create smoother travel experiences between Europe and Southern Africa, benefiting both leisure and business travelers.

The collaboration between Proflight and Turkish Airlines connects Proflight’s Southern African routes with Turkish Airlines’ extensive European network, which includes 296 international destinations in 130 countries. Turkish Airlines also offers direct flights to Lusaka twice a week, expanding access for European travelers.

“This partnership aligns with our mission to enhance connectivity and promote Zambia as a travel hub,” said Captain Josias Walubita, Proflight Zambia’s Director of Flight Operations.

“It simplifies the journey for passengers traveling between Europe and Zambia, while boosting tourism and trade opportunities in the region.”

The deal will allow passengers to book connecting flights through Johannesburg and Cape Town, alongside direct flights to Lusaka.

This integration is expected to increase accessibility to Zambia’s iconic destinations such as South Luangwa National Park and Livingstone, home to Victoria Falls, famously known as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke That Thunders.”

The agreement brings practical advantages for passengers. Simplified booking processes and comprehensive rebooking support in case of disruptions will ensure a seamless experience.

For business travelers, the enhanced network provides greater reliability and ease in planning multi-destination trips.

Tour operators and travel agents are also poised to benefit from this collaboration, as the agreement allows for competitive fares and better connectivity.

These improvements are expected to attract more European travelers to Zambia, increasing the appeal of the region as a travel destination.

Boosting Zambia’s tourism and economy

This partnership comes at a time when Zambia’s tourism sector is experiencing rapid growth. Tourist arrivals are projected to increase by 21.7% in 2024, with revenues from the travel and tourism market expected to reach US$133.70 million.

Iconic destinations such as South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi National Parks, along with the urban centers of Lusaka and Ndola, stand to benefit from increased international visibility.

Proflight Zambia, established in 1991, has grown to become the leading scheduled airline in Zambia. Operating from its base in Lusaka, the airline connects domestic and regional destinations, including Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town.

Its modern fleet, comprising Bombardier jets and Jetstream aircraft, ensures safe and efficient travel for leisure and business customers.

As Zambia positions itself as a key travel and trade hub in Southern Africa, the partnership with Turkish Airlines represents a milestone in achieving this vision.

Improved connectivity between Europe and Zambia will not only support tourism but also foster economic growth, particularly in sectors such as hospitality and transportation.

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