Local airline increases access to North-Western Zambia
Proflight Zambia has announced the return of scheduled flights to Kalumbila in North-Western Province beginning July 1, 2024, in a strategic move aimed at enhancing travel and bolstering economic growth in the region.
“Proflight is excited to bring back flights to Kalumbila. Our commitment to provide best in-class air services while connecting local cities and inspiring journeys remains steadfast,” said Director of Flight Operations Captain Josias Walubita.
Kalumbila District is known for its mining activities. Proflight’s reinstatement of the route follows increased demand for the service and is significant as it contributes to the region’s economic development by enhancing accessibility and facilitating the movement of passengers and cargo.
The direct flight from Lusaka (LUN) to Kalumbila (UMB) will take approximately one hour, while flights via Solwezi (SLI), the provincial capital, take about two hours.
One of Proflight’s 50-seater CRJ aircraft will be predominantly used on the route, which will have dedicated check-in staff and security personnel.
The flight schedule will operate from Lusaka to Kalumbila (via Solwezi) on Monday to Saturday, departing at 06:40hrs and arriving at 08:20hrs.
Additionally, there will be afternoon flights on Sunday to Friday, departing at 15:10hrs and arriving at 16:50hrs.
From Kalumbila to Lusaka, flights are available on Monday to Saturday, departing at 08:45hrs and arriving at 09:45hrs.
Additionally, there will be afternoon flights on Sunday to Friday, departing at 17:15hrs and arriving at 18:15hrs.
This new service will significantly reduce travel time for leisure and business travellers to and from Kalumbila, sparing them an arduous 14-hour journey covering approximately 668 km by road. The schedule also allows for convenient same-day returns Monday through Friday.
“The opening up of this route is critical in First Quantum Minerals’ desire to ensure that there is development in North-Western Province and in particular, the Kalumbila Multi-Facility Economic Zone” said FQM’s Director for Zambia, Anthony Mukutuma.
Capt. Walubita thanked FQM for their ongoing support and commitment to the Proflight network, as well as Zambia Airports Corporation (ZACL) for renting the airline an X-ray machine, ensuring adherence to the highest security standards.
