The government of Zimbabwe is fighting to save Air Zimbabwe from total collapse. The airline needs $20 million to keep its aircraft flying, and a further $8 million retrenchment package for workers and other obligations.
Transport, Communications and Infrastructural Development Minister, Nicholas Goche, giving evidence before a Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Transport, chaired by Kwekwe Central MP, Blessing Chebundo (MDCT), said a technical partner needed be found for Air Zimbabwe.
But, he warned, a major challenge for the airline is that its revenue is less than its overhead costs, making it run a negative balance sheet, which will make it difficult to attract a partner. Nevertheless, he confirmed, that discussions were underway with a possible suitor.
The minister also confirmed that there was no money to buy new aircraft and all the recent talk of the acquisition of new planes were a creation of the media.