Air Zimbabwe

Thought I'd be patriotic and flew Air Zimbabwe for the first time between London Gatwick and Harare. Disappointed must be the understatement of the century to put it mildly. I arrived at Gatwick at 16.30hrs for the 19.00hrs flight only to be told that the flight had been delayed and was now scheduled to leave at 2am Friday morning. At check -in we were graced with £5 refreshment vouchers. We waited patiently for 2am nothing happened. After numerous and ridiculous excuses such as the aircraft had been chartered to Ghana Airways had landed at Heathrow and taxis not finding their way to the hotel where the crew was we finally left Gatwick at 4am and arrived in Harare at 1500hrs. What an experience. All I can say is never again.

I flew domestically between several destinations in Zimbabwe and thought Air Zimbabwe was decent enough. The aircraft were newish Fokker 50's and a 707 that was uncomfortable. I was surprised we were given snacks and drinks even on flights that were half an hour or less. The service was better than average and despite old airport facilities the crew were organized and there were no major delays. This is all flying domestically though - I don't know if the international service is worse.

3 return flights between Zimbabwe and the UK. Harare to UK journey of a high standard with excellent and caring crew fairly good catering standards and comfortable piloting. Opposite to that is the regional flight to and fro Harare and Bulawayo. It's extremely uncomfortable with the plane causing you to practically shake all over. Conversation is fine but there is need for passengers to be encouraged to lower their volumes for the sake of the ill aged and sleepy.

Flew Air Zimbabwe VFA-HRE then HRE-MRU return. All flights were on Boeing 737-200 aircraft - showing their age but quite comfortable. Drinks service on all flights crisps and peanuts on the VFA-HRE route (a short hop) hot meals on Mauritius flights. Cabin crew were attentive and helpful. On the downside MRU-HRE flight was delayed 30 minutes but no explanations were given until we were on the plane (this may be more the airport's fault) - and some lifejackets not properly secured under seats. Overall though service was better than expected.