Allexer Namundjembo
Swiss leisure airline Edelweiss Air will increase its non-stop service between Zurich Airport and Hosea Kutako International Airport from two to three weekly flights.
The route is scheduled to launch on 1 June with two weekly flights and will expand to three weekly frequencies from 15 July. The service will be operated using an Airbus A350-900.
Namibia Airports Company chief executive officer and Air Connect Namibia chairperson Bisey /Uirab said the increase follows engagement with airline partners.
“The Edelweiss announcement is a strong vote of confidence in both our country and the long-term potential of the Zürich–Windhoek service,” /Uirab said.
He said the airline’s decision to add an additional frequency demonstrates what the country can achieve through constructive collaboration with project stakeholders and the broader community.
Data from the aviation sector shows that Namibia’s international connections have expanded in recent years.
The number of international destinations is projected to increase from 10 in 2023 to 17 by mid-2026 through direct or non-stop routes.
“With the addition of a third weekly frequency, the Lufthansa Group – through Edelweiss and Discover Airlines – will operate 13 direct weekly flights between its European gateways and Windhoek. The group will contribute more than 152 000 annual seats, further strengthening Namibia’s position as a key access point to European markets,” the Namibia Airports Company said.
The additional flights are scheduled to coincide with the peak tourism season between July and October.
Tourist destinations such as Etosha National Park, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund and the Skeleton Coast are among the main attractions for international visitors.
Switzerland remained one of Namibia’s key European markets in 2025, with about 24 200 two-way passengers recorded.
“Frequencies for Edelweiss’ upcoming route introduction, on its Airbus A350-900, will be implemented from Monday, 01 June 2026: 2x weekly frequencies; from Wednesday, 15 July 2026: 3x weekly frequencies,” /Uirab said.
Affirmative Repositioning (AR) member of parliament Vaino Hangula said the additional flight will improve access from Europe.
“The Edelweiss flight is a welcome vote of confidence in Namibia as a tourist destination,” he said.
He said the move could support the tourism sector.
“We must position ourselves to derive real lasting economic value in this opportunity, which is to convert more tourist arrivals into local jobs, regional economic activity and stronger investment interest in Namibia,” Hangula said.
Air Connect Namibia, established in 2024, is a joint initiative led by the Namibia Airports Company and industry partners to expand air routes and strengthen international connections.
