Zimbabwean aviation start-up FlyCrystal Airways is moving closer to launching operations after securing its first aircraft and outlining plans to operate both domestic and regional routes, a development expected to enhance connectivity and introduce new competition within the country’s aviation sector.
The privately owned airline, founded by Johannes Kudakwashe Simau, is targeting business travellers as it works toward completing the remaining regulatory requirements ahead of its official take-off.
Simau confirmed that FlyCrystal has secured a 19-seater aircraft to begin operations.
“FlyCrystal will charter one 19-seater Let 410, 7Q-MMJ (msn 902439), from Malawi’s Zebu Air, which will be deployed on domestic routes from Harare International Airport to Bulawayo, Mutare, Kariba and Victoria Falls,” he said.
Beyond domestic services, the airline has already arranged access to additional aircraft to support regional expansion plans.
“In addition, we have secured further charter arrangements for a Challenger 800 (CRJ200), B737 and E120 to support our regional operations. These aircraft will enable us to efficiently serve the routes we have already been designated into South Africa,” Simau added.
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FlyCrystal has secured designation approvals to operate scheduled passenger and cargo services between Zimbabwe and South Africa, marking a significant milestone in its growth strategy.
“The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe advised that its South African counterpart approved FlyCrystal’s designation to operate on four routes — Harare to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo, Bulawayo to Johannesburg, Victoria Falls to Cape Town International, and Harare to Cape Town,” Simau said.
The airline is now progressing with regulatory applications, including a foreign operator’s permit from the South African Civil Aviation Authority, while simultaneously preparing for a Zimbabwean Air Operator’s Certificate from the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe.
FlyCrystal previously obtained an Air Service Permit in June 2023, valid until June 29, 2026. Additional approvals granted later that year authorised international routes linking Harare to destinations such as Dar es Salaam, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Windhoek, London, Dubai and China.
Looking ahead, Simau said the airline intends to expand into long-haul operations targeting key global business hubs.
“FlyCrystal plans to target business travellers on domestic and regional routes, with long-term ambitions to introduce flights to the United Kingdom, Dubai International, Mumbai International and Guangzhou,” he said.
The company was incorporated in the United Kingdom in September 2021 before registering locally in Zimbabwe in January 2023, positioning itself to capitalise on growing demand for regional and international air travel.
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