RGM International Airport New Terminal to Boost Air Transport

Zimbabwe is preparing to witness a surge in air transport activities after the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare opened its new international terminal.

The project, valued at $153 million, was officially opened by President Emerson Mnangagwa on July 14, in the presence of government officials, aviation stakeholders, and media partners.

With an impressive increase in handling capacity, the upgraded airport underscores the nation’s commitment to enhancing tourism.

Strengthening Tourism and International Connectivity

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport serves as a vital gateway in Southern Africa, connecting major regional hubs such as Johannesburg OR Tambo (JNB) and Lusaka Kenneth Kaunda (LUN).

Recognizing the crucial role aviation plays in supporting tourism and international investments, Zimbabwe has invested in developing its central hub.

The New Terminal’s Enhanced Capacity

The newly unveiled international terminal is poised to handle a minimum of 6.5 million passengers annually, a significant increase from the previous terminal’s capacity of 2.5 million passengers.

Constructed by China Jiangsu Construction Group Corporation, the terminal has now been handed over to the Airports Company of Zimbabwe (ACZ).

Pandemic-induced Delays and Refurbishment Efforts

The ambitious expansion project, initiated in 2018 and initially set for completion in 2021, faced delays due to pandemic-induced restrictions.

However, after two years of perseverance, the project has come to fruition.

Additionally, ACZ plans to refurbish the existing terminals to meet international standards.

Facilities and Features of the New Terminal

The new terminal at RGM airport features integrated international arrival and departure sections, providing a seamless travel experience.

The departure wing occupies a substantial area of the terminal, while the rest accommodates the arrival and passenger processing area.

Once the infrastructure refurbishment is complete, passengers will have access to the entire terminal building.

Travelers will find modern amenities within the terminal, including self-check-in kiosks, Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS), prayer rooms, smoking areas, restaurants, duty-free shops, and a quarantine center.

Additionally, several fast-food outlets have set up shop to offer passengers a variety of meal options.

Enhanced Boarding Facilities and Connectivity

To facilitate smooth boarding operations, ten new boarding gates have been added, bringing the total to 16, and the number of jet bridges has increased from three to seven.

This upgraded infrastructure benefits not only the airlines operating at the airport but also the passengers who can now enjoy a more efficient and comfortable travel experience.

Boosting Airline Operations and New Routes

The strategic geographical position of Harare with one of Africa’s longest runways allows it to conveniently serve several airports in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

Despite the country’s infrastructural challenges, the expanded terminals provide a significant advantage to the airlines operating at the airport.

Airlines like Fastjet and Air Zimbabwe have extended their congratulations to ACZ and the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development for the successful commissioning of the new terminal building.

Other international carriers, including Airlink, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar Airways, also operate regional and international flights to Harare.

Expanding Connectivity for Zimbabwe

RGM International Airport continues to attract new airlines, with recent additions being Zambia Airways and Eswatini Air, both operating flights to Harare.

These developments reflect the airport’s commitment to expanding its route network, further enhancing Zimbabwe’s connectivity with the rest of the world.

With the grand unveiling of the new international terminal at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, Zimbabwe is set to witness increased air transport activity and heightened tourism prospects.

The upgraded facilities and expanded capacity mark a significant milestone in the nation’s commitment to advancing its aviation sector and fostering international connectivity. – Zim Travel Guide