Zambia to Host AviaDev Africa 2027 as Airlift Zambia Initiative Targets Bold New Route Map
- Zambia has been selected as host for AviaDev Africa 2027, the continent’s only dedicated air service development conference. The announcement, in partnership with Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL), coincides with the launch of the Airlift Zambia Initiative to establish the country as a major Southern African connectivity hub.
AviaDev Africa serves as the leading forum for route development and air service negotiations. Previous events in Windhoek, Zanzibar, and Botswana have produced new routes, and Zambia’s hosting reflects its rising aviation profile.
The Airlift Zambia Initiative aims to attract more international airlines and open long-haul routes. Recent additions include Qatar Airways, Uganda Airlines, Fastjet Zimbabwe, Eswatini Air and Proflight Zambia’s new regional services.
Zambia’s four international airports — Lusaka, Livingstone (Victoria Falls), Ndola, and Mfuwe (South Luangwa) — will support a decentralised strategy to spread tourism benefits.
Tourism is booming, with international arrivals doubling from 1.1 million in 2022 to 2.3 million in 2025. The government targets 2.5–3 million arrivals in 2026 and a USD 1 billion tourism industry by 2031.
ZACL Managing Director Urvesh Desai highlighted Zambia’s infrastructure, ambition, and strategic location as key strengths.
AviaDev CEO Jon Howell praised Zambia as the perfect host, citing its strong visitor growth and current under-connectivity as major opportunities.
Backed by political stability, an Open Skies policy, and iconic attractions, Zambia is set to play a bigger role in African aviation through AviaDev Africa 2027
Source: Travelafrica.news | 22/06/2026
