Giant Cargo Airliner KLM Pulls Out of Harare Route

Gilbert Munetsi

Zim Now Writer

After more than three decades of plying the Harare-Europe route, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has announced it will cease its freight operations effective April this year. It attributes the withdrawal to operational challenges.

KLM first began serving the Harare route in the early 1990s, providing a crucial link for cargo transportation. The airline primarily brought goods such as machinery, electronics, and high-value industrial equipment to Harare while exporting perishable agricultural products like fresh flowers, vegetables, and fruits to European markets.

Freight volumes on the route varied, with an estimated capacity of up to 100 tons per flight, depending on demand.

KLM operated flights to Harare with a frequency of three times per week. However, frequent 48-hour delays, cancellations, and rescheduling severely impacted these operations, according to Tiger Freight’s Managing Director, Pim de Wit.

In a notice to customers, de Wit explained that KLM’s decision to remove Harare from its African freighter operations stemmed from several challenges, including the short flight leg, the absence of local maintenance facilities, and inconsistent freight volumes.

This adjustment comes as the airline reduces its overall African operations to three weekly flights, excluding Harare.

A statement from the company, which comprises expert transport professionals who hunt for the best carriers within a region, reads:

“We are working closely with Airflo KE to ensure alternative routings, where capacity remains available to transport your goods. This includes partnering with Ethiopian Airlines to provide direct connections from Harare to Addis Ababa, followed by freighter flights to Europe. Additionally, FX Logistics has obtained permits for cargo handling operations in Addis Ababa.”

The statement also highlighted other cargo options for Harare, including Middle Eastern carriers Emirates and Qatar Airways, which offer routes for both westbound (Europe) and eastbound (Asia) freight. However, westbound freight rates are currently higher due to surging demand from e-commerce.

De Wit added that cargo can also be routed through Johannesburg, although this might lead to extended handling times. He reassured clients, stating:

“We remain committed to providing the highest level of service during this transition and will continue to work on identifying the most efficient and reliable alternatives. Should you have any concerns or require further details, please do not hesitate to reach out.

“Thank you for your understanding and continued cooperation. We will provide further updates as the new solutions are put in place.”

Besides KLM, other cargo carriers currently serving Harare include Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. These airlines remain critical for the transportation of goods from Harare to destinations in Europe, Asia, and beyond.