Mozambique’s national carrier, LAM, has announced the resumption of flights to Lusaka, a route it had ceased serving over 30 years ago. From June 30, LAM will operate flights to Lusaka three times a week, on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

The decision reflects LAM's commitment to expanding its regional network and fostering greater connectivity between the two countries. “The start of flights to Lusaka is part of the strategy of including the capitals of southern African countries in LAM’s destinations,” said a spokesperson for the airline.

LAM will deploy an Embraer ERJ145 on the route. Flight TM354 will depart from Maputo at 12h30, arriving in Harare at 14h05 before departing at 14h45 to arrive in Lusaka at 15h50. Return flight TM355 will depart Lusaka at 16h30, arrive in Harare at 17h35 then depart for Maputo at 18h15. The arrival time in Maputo is 19h50.

Welcoming the announcement, Lloyd Himaambo, Zambia's Acting High Commissioner to Mozambique, attributed the development to President Hakainde Hichilema's recent state visit. President Hichilema's visit to Mozambique in April expedited the process of granting Mozambican airlines permission to operate the Lusaka route.

Himaambo said launching flights from Maputo to Lusaka would undoubtedly boost trade and strengthen connections between Zambia and Mozambique. Currently, travellers from Maputo to Lusaka have to connect through Johannesburg or Addis Ababa, but this new route will offer a better option.

LAM currently operates flights between Maputo and Johannesburg, as well as Maputo and Harare, in addition to Pemba and Dar es Salaam.