Zanzibar set for strong aviation activity in January

In December, Zanzibar handled a total of 550 flights, although several Kenya Airways services were cancelled and overall traffic remained below potential.

The picture is set to change significantly in January 2026, when 575 flights are expected — up from 512 flights in the same period last year, representing a notable year-on-year increase.

A breakdown of the January schedule shows a consistently busy month, with flight activity rising sharply after the first week. The month opens with 80 flights in Week One, before climbing to 134 in the second week. Operations remain strong in Week three with 127 flights, followed by a slight increase to 129 in week four.

The pace then eases towards the end of the month, with Week Five recording 105 flights, underscoring sustained demand throughout January despite minor fluctuations.

Aviation officials say the improved figures reflect stronger demand from key source markets and the return of several international carriers that had scaled back operations in previous seasons.

Europe, Middle East and Africa lead growth

The 2026 flight programme highlights Zanzibar’s expanding reach across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, with a mix of scheduled and charter services boosting seat capacity.

Among the major carriers operating regularly into the islands are Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates partner FlyDubai, Ethiopian Airlines, Air France, KLM, Condor, Edelweiss, Neos, Enter Air and TUI Blue, alongside strong regional connectivity from Kenya Airways, RwandAir, Uganda Airlines, Jambojet and FlySafair.

Direct and one-stop links now connect Zanzibar to key hubs such as Istanbul, Doha, Dubai, Paris, Amsterdam, Zurich, Frankfurt, Rome, Verona, Warsaw and London, strengthening the islands’ position as one of the most accessible leisure destinations in the Indian Ocean.

The growing number of European charter flights, particularly from Germany, Poland, Switzerland, Italy and the Netherlands, is expected to play a critical role in driving high-season arrivals, especially during the northern winter when demand for warm destinations peaks.

Boost for tourism and the wider economy

Tourism stakeholders say the increase in flights is more than just a numbers game, it translates directly into higher hotel occupancy, stronger performance for tour operators, and increased income for small businesses across the islands.

With more than a dozen international airlines now operating into Zanzibar on a weekly basis, the destination is benefiting from greater competition, more route options and improved scheduling flexibility for travellers.

“This kind of growth in air access is exactly what Zanzibar needs to sustain its continued tourism growth,” said an industry source. “Every additional flight means more visitors, more jobs and more foreign exchange for the economy.”

Beyond tourism, the improved connectivity also strengthens trade links, making it easier for exporters of seafood, spices and fresh produce to reach overseas markets, while improving business travel between Zanzibar and major global commercial centres.

The stronger outlook for 2026 comes after a period of uncertainty for global aviation, marked by fluctuating demand, operational disruptions and rising costs.

The cancellations seen in December — particularly on regional routes — underscored the fragile nature of the recovery. However, the January schedules point to renewed airline confidence in Zanzibar’s market fundamentals: steady tourist demand, improving airport infrastructure and a reputation as a safe, attractive destination.

Aviation analysts say if the current trend continues, Zanzibar could surpass its flight volumes within the next two seasons, especially if new routes under discussion from Eastern Europe and the Gulf materialise.