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Freeman Razemba

Senior Reporter

THE Government has purchased air traffic control communication equipment which are set to be installed at seven airports countrywide, including the new-look Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport as part of the Second Republic’s commitment for a safe and secure airspace and ensuring that no aircraft is exposed to danger.

The development also comes after a new state-of-the-art radio navigation system capable of communicating with at least 200 airplanes at a time was recently installed at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport as part of the US$153 million expansion of the airport.

RGM International Airport which was commissioned last Friday by President Mnangagwa is set to become a regional aviation hub able to handle about 6 million passengers annually, from the present 2,5 million.

The upgrading of the facilities at RGM airport is expected to see more international airlines opening routes into Harare and a corresponding increase in tourist arrivals.

Speaking during the commissioning of the airport last Friday, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona confirmed the new air traffic control equipment was already in the country and ready to be installed.

“I am pleased to inform you that the Air Traffic Control Communication Project is on track. The equipment is already in the country and ready to be installed at our seven airports, namely, Robert Gabriel Mugabe, Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, Kariba, Masvingo, Buffalo Range, Hwange and Charles Prince.

“Victoria Falls International Airport will be an exception because it had the system installed in 2016 when it was modernised and upgraded. We expect the project to be finalised in August 2023,” he said.

Minister Mhona also said the upgraded RG Mugabe International Airport now boasts of state-of-the-art facilities, including a new terminal building, expanded runway, and enhanced security systems. 

The airport’s modernisation drive is one of the flagship projects being implemented by the Second Republic under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, who has placed emphasis on high impact projects in line with the National Development Strategy 1.

It will become a regional aviation hub able to handle about 6 million passengers annually, from the present 2,5 million.

The upgrading of the RGM International Airport is also expected to see more international airlines opening routes into Harare and a corresponding increase in tourist arrivals.