Proflight Zambia has revealed plans to launch direct flights between Lusaka, Zambia, and Maun, Botswana, starting in 2026. The new service aims to make travel between two of Southern Africa’s top safari destinations more convenient, improving accessibility for both leisure and business travelers while strengthening regional air transport networks.
The announcement was made by CEO Anthony Irwin at the Airlines Association of Southern Africa’s Annual General Assembly. Irwin explained that the direct route will link Zambia’s key national parks—such as South Luangwa, Kafue, and Lower Zambezi—with Botswana’s iconic Okavango Delta. This connection is expected to significantly cut travel time and simplify logistics for tourists planning multi-country safari trips, eliminating the need for long layovers and multiple flight connections.
From a transport and logistics standpoint, the Lusaka–Maun route represents an important addition to Southern Africa’s aviation network. Direct flights allow for smoother passenger flow, better aircraft utilization, and fewer operational challenges associated with multi-leg itineraries. Airlines benefit from more predictable scheduling, while airport operators can manage ground operations more efficiently. The service could also enhance cargo logistics, improving the timely transport of tourism-related goods, such as supplies, equipment, and perishables for hospitality businesses in both countries.
The economic impact of the new route is expected to extend beyond aviation. Tourism specialists anticipate that easier access will attract more visitors, encourage longer stays, and boost spending in Zambia and Botswana. This could create employment opportunities across several sectors, including hotels, tour companies, ground transport, and local enterprises near national parks. By connecting two high-demand safari destinations, Proflight Zambia is supporting integrated travel packages and improving operational efficiency for tour operators.
The route also aligns with the goals of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), which aims to facilitate travel within Africa by simplifying regulations, expanding route access, and lowering fares. Proflight Zambia’s expansion reinforces the airline’s role in regional connectivity and contributes to the broader development of Southern Africa’s transport and tourism infrastructure.
Although flight schedules and ticket prices have not yet been announced, the airline plans to operate multiple flights per week. This frequency is expected to offer travelers flexibility while supporting both tourism and business travel, as well as optimizing aircraft deployment and crew scheduling.
By introducing direct Lusaka–Maun flights, Proflight Zambia is enhancing convenience for passengers and boosting the efficiency and competitiveness of Southern Africa’s regional air network. The route is expected to set a new standard for multi-country tourism logistics, providing seamless access to iconic wildlife destinations and promoting economic growth through improved air connectivity.
