Windhoek – Namibia’s tourism sector is set to receive a significant boost with the launch of direct flights between Botswana and Namibia next month.
Air Botswana announced on Tuesday that it will commence flights from Maun, Kasane, and Gaborone to Namibia and South Africa, with the first Namibia-bound flights taking off in October.
The Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism expects the new route to significantly increase tourist arrivals from Botswana. According to spokesperson Romeo Muyunda, Botswana is currently Namibia’s third-largest source market for African tourists.
“We anticipate a surge in visitor numbers with this new direct connection,” Muyunda said, adding that the previous reliance on the Kasane route had limited tourism growth potential.
The new flight route comes on the heels of an agreement between Namibia and Botswana allowing citizens from both countries to cross borders using only identification cards. This is expected to further facilitate travel between the two countries.
Air Botswana and Namibia Airports Company (NAC) have jointly announced that the new flights will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, connecting Windhoek to the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park.
NAC CEO Bisey /Uirab attributes the new route to sustained collaboration between the two governments and businesses. He believes the increased air connectivity will foster stronger economic ties and people-to-people interactions.
Air Botswana CEO Lulu Rasebotsa described the new routes as popular destinations for both business and leisure travelers. The airline expects to strengthen its presence in the region and offer more travel options to customers.
The hospitality industry has welcomed the new flights. Gitta Paetzold, head of the Hospitality Association of Namibia, said the increased connectivity within the region will benefit both leisure and business travelers.
