The Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL) has officially launched a state-of-the-art aerobridge at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (SMKIA), marking a significant milestone in Zambia’s aviation modernization efforts.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Director General, Captain Derrick Luembe, praised ZACL and stakeholders for their role in operationalizing the facility, calling it a transformative step for passenger safety and comfort.
The newly commissioned aerobridge provides a secure, weather-protected connection between aircraft and the terminal, enhancing passenger accessibility and streamlining airline operations. Captain Luembe emphasized that the facility aligns with Zambia’s National Civil Aviation Strategy, which prioritizes safety, modernization, and service excellence.
“This aerobridge will improve turnaround times and elevate the passenger experience while meeting stringent safety standards,” he said during the launch event.
ALSO READ: KONZA TECHNOPOLIS UNVEILS PHASE 1 INFRASTRUCTURE, ADVANCING KENYA’S SILICON SAVANNAH
The CAA played a pivotal regulatory role, ensuring compliance with Zambia Civil Aviation Requirements (ZCARs) and international standards through rigorous audits, staff training, and docking trials. The aerobridge features one bay for wide-bodied aircraft and two for narrow-bodied planes, positioning SMKIA as a hub for world-class aviation infrastructure.
ZACL Managing Director Urvesh Desai hailed the aerobridge as a game-changer for Zambia’s aviation sector. “This investment boosts operational efficiency and passenger comfort while supporting the government’s infrastructure development goals,” Desai said. He added that the facility strengthens Zambia’s growing reputation as a regional aviation and tourism hub.
The launch follows months of preparation, including successful safety inspections and training programs. Captain Luembe reaffirmed the CAA’s commitment to ongoing oversight to ensure the aerobridge remains safe and efficient.
