Fastjet Zimbabwe launches business premium class on leased Airbus A320-200 

HARARE, Jul 28 (NewsDay Live) - Fastjet Zimbabwe will offer a business premium cabin for the first time this year, rolling out the product on a leased Airbus A320-200 that the airline is flying between August and September in anticipation of a surge in regional travel demand. The airline announced Monday that the new class will be available on flights plying Harare-Johannesburg, and Victoria Falls-Johannesburg routes. These are the low-cost  airline's two busiest routes during the peak season. The business premium seats,according to the airline, are positioned at the front of the aircraft and are extra-wide, according to the airline. The package also includes curated menu options with full bar service at select times, access to business class lounges, and a combined baggage allowance of 46 kilogrammes well above what economy passengers are typically permitted. The A320-200, leased on a short-term basis from lessor AerCap through operator Global, entered service on August 1 and marks the first time Fastjet Zimbabwe has flown the aircraft type. It is configured with 168 seats -  156 in economy and 12 in business class,  a significantly larger capacity than the Embraer regional jets that make up the rest of the airline's fleet.  The 21-year-old airframe was originally delivered to Kingfisher Airlines in 2005 and most recently flew for Pan Pacific Airlines before joining Global's operation. Airline executives cast the launch as both a response to immediate demand and a test run for a bigger decision on whether to bring the A320-200 into the fleet permanently starting next year. "The introduction of a business premium product is part of our continued efforts to deliver customer needs and better serve our market," said Donahue Cortes, business chief executive and country head of Fastjet Zimbabwe.  Fastjet's chief commercial officer Vivian Ruwuya said the new cabin was designed with a broad set of travellers in mind.  "Our business premium product will raise the bar and redefine business travel on these routes," Ruwuya said.  "We curated and designed a business class offering that is designed for the ultimate comfort and care for our premium guests travelling between Harare and Johannesburg, and Victoria Falls and Johannesburg. We are confident the product will resonate with business travellers, leisure guests seeking a premium experience, and customers who value greater comfort and personalised service."

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