Proflight Zambia

Proflight Zambia stands as a beacon of connectivity in Southern Africa, originally established to bridge the vast distances of this breathtaking region. From its humble beginnings, it has evolved into Zambia's flagship private airline, offering travelers a seamless gateway to both bustling cities and world-renowned natural wonders. Whether you are a business traveler heading to the Copperbelt or a tourist chasing the roar of Victoria Falls, Proflight Zambia ensures your journey is as memorable as the destination itself.

History and Network
Founded in 1991, Proflight Zambia began as a charter operator before expanding into scheduled services to meet the growing demand for reliable domestic travel. Over the decades, it has cemented its status as a vital link within the country, connecting the capital, Lusaka, with key economic and tourism hubs. The airline operates frequent flights to major domestic destinations such as Ndola, Solwezi, Kasama, and Livingstone, making it the preferred choice for reaching the majestic Victoria Falls. Beyond domestic borders, the carrier has expanded its regional footprint, offering direct connections to major South African cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Fleet and Service
The airline operates a fleet tailored to the specific needs of regional aviation, combining speed with the ability to land at smaller airports. The fleet primarily consists of CRJ-100/200 jets for longer regional routes and Jetstream 41 and 32 aircraft for shorter domestic hops. This mix ensures efficiency and accessibility, allowing the airline to serve both remote safari lodges and major international airports. Proflight Zambia prides itself on its friendly, "distinctly Zambian" service, aiming to make every passenger feel welcome from the moment they step on board.

Commitment to Quality
Safety and reliability are at the core of Proflight Zambia's mission. The airline adheres to rigorous maintenance schedules and international safety standards, earning the trust of local and international travelers alike. Through strategic interline agreements with major global carriers, Proflight facilitates seamless travel for tourists arriving from overseas, ensuring that the beauty of Zambia is easily accessible to the world.

Contacting Proflight Zambia from the United Arab Emirates
While Proflight Zambia does not currently maintain a dedicated branch office in the United Arab Emirates, travelers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates can easily manage their bookings and inquiries through the airline's international customer service channels. For the most direct assistance, the airline recommends using their official digital platforms.

Official Website
For flight bookings, schedule checks, and ticket management, please visit the airline's official website. This is the primary resource for the most up-to-date contact information, including dedicated support lines and email addresses. Travelers are encouraged to search for "Proflight Zambia" to access the authorized portal directly.

Customer Support Channels
Travelers can reach the airline's support team for reservations, baggage inquiries, and cargo services. To ensure you have the correct and current details, please refer to the "Contact Us" section on the official website. Support is typically available via telephone and email, as well as instant messaging platforms suited for international communication.

Social Media
The airline maintains an active presence on major social media platforms. Travelers can follow "Proflight Zambia" on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram to receive updates or reach out via direct messages for general queries.

Local Presence and Connections
Proflight Zambia currently operates without a physical walk-in office or dedicated airport desk in the United Arab Emirates. Travelers are advised to use the digital channels listed above. For complex multi-leg itineraries involving partner airlines connecting to Proflight services in Lusaka or Johannesburg, please consult your local travel agent in the UAE.

Operating Hours
The central reservations team operates daily based on Central Africa Time. Travelers contacting the airline from the United Arab Emirates should account for the time difference when seeking real-time assistance.

Baggage Allowance Overview
Understanding the baggage policy is essential when flying with Proflight Zambia, especially given the diverse fleet of aircraft used for different routes. Space can be limited on smaller regional aircraft, so the airline enforces specific weight and size restrictions to ensure safety and comfort. Whether you are connecting through Lusaka or travelling from international hubs like Johannesburg, adhering to these guidelines will help ensure a smooth journey.

Carry-on Baggage
Passengers are generally entitled to one piece of carry-on luggage. Due to the limited overhead bin size on aircraft like the Jetstream 32 and 41, the weight limit is strictly monitored and is typically capped at 5 kg (11 lbs). In addition to the main carry-on item, passengers may usually bring a small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or camera case. It is highly recommended that all valuables, medication, and important documents be kept in your hand luggage.

Checked Baggage
Proflight Zambia differentiates itself with a generous baggage policy designed to accommodate travelers' needs.

• Standard Allowance: Unlike many other regional carriers, Proflight generally includes a free checked baggage allowance of 23 kg (50 lbs) across most fare classes, including the promotional Firecracker Fares.
• Children and Infants: Infants seated on a lap generally have a smaller baggage allowance, often around 10 kg, plus a collapsible stroller or car seat.
• Interline Flights: Please verify the specific allowance printed on your ticket, as rules may differ for flights connecting to Cape Town or other partner-operated routes where different weight concepts might apply.

Excess Baggage Fees
If your luggage exceeds the free allowance, excess baggage fees will apply. These are usually calculated per kilogram and can be paid at the airport during check-in. However, space for excess baggage is not guaranteed on fully booked flights, particularly on smaller aircraft serving destinations like Livingstone or Ndola. For heavy loads, it is advisable to contact the airline in advance to make cargo arrangements.

Special Baggage and Sports Equipment
Proflight Zambia welcomes travelers with sports equipment and has specific policies to support active tourism.

• Golf Bags: The airline is particularly golfer-friendly. Golf bags are often carried free of charge in addition to your standard checked baggage allowance, subject to available space on the aircraft.
• Other Sports Equipment: Items such as fishing rods and bicycles must be packed correctly. Due to cargo hold limitations, large items must be pre-booked to ensure they can be accommodated.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried on board if they fit within the hand luggage dimensions. Larger instruments must be checked in as special baggage or transported on an extra seat ticket.

Restricted and Prohibited Items
For the safety of all passengers, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage. These include flammable liquids, explosives, corrosives, and compressed gases. Lithium batteries and power banks must only be packed in carry-on luggage and never in checked bags. Sharp objects and tools must be securely packed in checked luggage only.

Packing Tips for Regional Travel
When flying on regional routes within Zambia and Southern Africa, using soft-sided bags (duffel bags or backpacks) is strongly recommended over hard-shell suitcases. Soft bags are significantly easier to stow in the compact cargo holds of smaller aircraft. Additionally, ensure your baggage is clearly tagged with your name, contact details, and final destination to prevent any mix-ups during transfers.

Traveling with Pets
Proflight Zambia generally maintains a pet-friendly outlook, recognizing that for many travelers, a trip is incomplete without their four-legged companions. However, due to the specific operational environment and the limited capacity of the regional aircraft fleet, strict regulations govern the transport of animals. It is mandatory to book your pet's travel well in advance—ideally at the time of purchasing your own ticket—to ensure space is available. Travelers should be aware that space in the hold is restricted, and unbooked pets will likely be refused carriage at the airport.

Cabin Policy Restrictions
It is important to note that Proflight Zambia does not permit pets to travel in the passenger cabin. Regardless of the animal's size, weight, or breed, all pets must be transported in the aircraft hold. The cabin is reserved strictly for passengers to ensure safety and comfort in the compact environment of regional jets and turboprops. The only exception to this rule is for trained service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities, provided prior arrangements have been made.

Transport Options: Baggage vs. Cargo
The method of transporting your pet depends largely on your route and the size of the animal.

• Domestic Flights: On flights within Zambia, such as those connecting Lusaka with Ndola, Livingstone, or Solwezi, pets can often travel as checked baggage. They must be housed in a secure, rigid, IATA-compliant travel crate that allows the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• International Flights: For travel across borders, such as routes to or from Johannesburg or Cape Town, pets are generally required to travel as manifest cargo rather than checked baggage. This is due to strict aviation security and customs regulations in South Africa and other neighboring countries.

Documentation and Health Requirements
To avoid travel disruptions, all pets must possess valid and up-to-date health documentation. This typically includes a vaccination booklet showing a current rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days prior to the flight. For domestic travel within Zambia, a stock movement permit from the Department of Veterinary Services is often required. For international sectors, travelers must secure the necessary import and export permits for the respective countries. Failure to present these documents at check-in will result in the refusal of carriage.

Service Animals
Proflight Zambia accepts trained service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities on board free of charge. As the only animals allowed in the cabin, they require special clearance. Passengers traveling with service animals should notify the airline during the booking process to ensure appropriate seating arrangements are made. The dog must be harnessed and is expected to sit at the passenger's feet without obstructing the aisle or emergency exits.

Introduction to Mbasela Club
Proflight Zambia rewards its loyal travelers through the Mbasela Club, a straightforward and generous frequent flyer program designed to make regional travel more rewarding. The name "Mbasela" is derived from a local Zambian term meaning "a bonus" or "something extra," perfectly reflecting the program's philosophy of giving back to passengers. Unlike complex schemes with confusing calculations, the Mbasela Club focuses on a simple "fly more, earn more" approach, allowing members to easily track their progress toward free travel across the airline's expanding network.

Membership Tiers
The Mbasela Club operates as a streamlined, single-tier program, ensuring that every registered member enjoys the full range of benefits from day one without needing to reach elite status thresholds.

• Mbasela Club Member: The sole membership level which is open to all individuals over the age of two. Members receive a unique membership number, earn miles on every eligible flight, and have access to exclusive "Mbasela-only" promotions. The primary benefit is the ability to accrue miles that do not expire for three years, giving travelers ample time to build up their balance for rewards.

Earning Miles
Earning rewards with Proflight Zambia is designed to be transparent and easy to calculate, based on the type of route flown rather than the fare class.

• Domestic Flights: Members earn a flat rate of 250 Miles for every one-way flight within Zambia, such as trips between Lusaka and Ndola or Livingstone.
• Regional Flights: International routes, including flights to Johannesburg and Cape Town, earn a higher flat rate of 500 Miles per one-way sector.
• Mileage Validity: Miles remain valid for a period of 3 years, encouraging long-term participation.
• Missing Miles: Members can claim miles for flights taken within previous months if their membership number was not entered at the time of booking, provided they retain their ticket details.

Redeeming Miles
The redemption structure is just as simple as the earning process, effectively functioning as a "fly 10, get 1 free" model for similar route types.

• Award Flights: Members can redeem accumulated miles for free tickets (excluding taxes). A one-way domestic ticket typically requires 2,500 Miles.
• Regional Awards: A one-way regional ticket can be claimed for 5,000 Miles.
• Transferability: One of the program's standout features is the ability to use your miles to book a reward ticket for a friend or family member, making it a flexible option for group travel or gifts.
• Process: Award requests are handled via a dedicated form on the airline's website, requiring advance notice to secure the limited reward seats available on each flight.

Airline Partnerships and Connectivity
While Proflight Zambia is not a member of a global airline alliance like Star Alliance or Oneworld, it has established powerful interline agreements to facilitate global connectivity.

• Key Partners: The airline partners with major carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and South African Airways, allowing for single-ticket itineraries and baggage through-checking.
• New Connections: In late 2024, Proflight announced a significant interline agreement with Turkish Airlines, opening up seamless connections from Europe to Zambia's key tourist hubs.
• Note on Miles: Currently, Mbasela Club miles are earned exclusively on Proflight-operated metal and cannot be accrued or redeemed on partner airline flights.

How to Join
Joining the Mbasela Club is free and can be done entirely online.

• Registration: Travelers can sign up via the "Frequent Flyer" section of the official Proflight Zambia website.
• Requirements: You simply need a valid email address and personal details. Each family member, including children, must have their own individual account.
• Instant Access: Upon registration, you receive a membership number immediately, which should be entered into all future bookings to ensure miles are credited automatically.

Cabin Classes and Seating Comfort
Proflight Zambia operates a streamlined, single-class Economy cabin designed to provide efficiency and comfort on short-haul regional routes. Whether flying on the 50-seater Bombardier CRJ-100/200 jets or the 29-seater Jetstream 41 turboprops, passengers can expect a professional and welcoming atmosphere. The CRJ fleet features a comfortable 2-by-2 seat configuration, ensuring that every passenger has either a window or an aisle seat—ideal for enjoying the scenic views of Southern Africa. On the smaller Jetstream aircraft, the 1-by-2 layout offers a unique single-seat row option, perfect for solo travelers seeking extra privacy. While there is no separate Business Class cabin, the airline offers flexible fare options to suit different travel needs.

In-Flight Dining
Despite the short duration of most flights, the airline prides itself on its "distinctly Zambian" hospitality. On domestic routes connecting Lusaka with destinations like Ndola, Solwezi, and Livingstone, passengers are treated to a complimentary selection of beverages, including water, soft drinks, and freshly brewed Zambian coffee. On afternoon services, the offering often expands to include beer, wine, and locally produced snacks. For longer international flights to Johannesburg and Cape Town, the service is upgraded to include a complimentary cold light meal accompanied by a full range of beverages, ensuring travelers arrive refreshed.

Entertainment and Amenities
In-flight entertainment on Proflight Zambia is centered around the joy of reading and discovery. Every seat pocket contains a copy of Nkwazi, the airline’s acclaimed in-flight magazine. This high-quality publication features engaging stories about Zambian culture, wildlife, business, and travel, serving as an excellent guide for visitors exploring the region. While the regional aircraft are not equipped with digital screens or Wi-Fi, the lower cruising altitudes of the turboprop fleet often provide passengers with breathtaking aerial views of the African landscape.

Family and Special Services
The airline is committed to making travel accessible for everyone, with specific services tailored for families and passengers with reduced mobility. Unaccompanied minors aged 5 to 11 are welcomed on board with prior arrangement, ensuring children traveling alone are supervised and safe throughout their journey. For passengers with disabilities, wheelchair assistance is available at all major airports; however, due to the compact size of the aircraft, it is essential to request these services at the time of booking to ensure appropriate support is prepared.

Fleet Specifics and Baggage Handling
Understanding the aircraft type can help passengers prepare for their trip. The Bombardier CRJ jets are used on high-frequency routes like Lusaka to Ndola and key international sectors, offering a faster, smoother ride with standard overhead bins. The Jetstream 41, often used for routes to Kasama or smaller airstrips, is a turboprop aircraft where cabin baggage space is restricted. On these flights, larger carry-on items are typically tagged at the stairs and placed in the hold, then returned immediately upon disembarkation, a convenient service that ensures cabin comfort.

Proflight Zambia operates a robust route network designed to serve both the business community and the growing tourism sector in Southern Africa. Centered around its primary hub in Lusaka, the airline provides essential connectivity across Zambia while linking the country to major economic and leisure gateways in South Africa.

Domestic Network: Exploring Zambia
The airline’s domestic schedule is tailored to offer frequent and reliable access to Zambia’s most significant regions.

• Ndola: As the commercial gateway to the Copperbelt province, Ndola is served by multiple daily flights, offering high-frequency connections ideal for business travelers commuting from the capital.
• Livingstone: Famous as the home of the majestic Victoria Falls, Livingstone receives regular daily service. This route is a favorite for tourists seeking easy access to one of the world's natural wonders and the surrounding safari lodges.
• Regional Links: The network also extends to key provincial towns, providing scheduled services to Solwezi, a hub for the mining industry, and Kasama in the Northern Province, known for its heritage sites and waterfalls.

Regional Connections: South Africa
Beyond Zambia’s borders, Proflight Zambia facilitates seamless travel to South Africa's top destinations.

• Johannesburg: The airline operates frequent daily flights between Lusaka and Johannesburg. This route serves as a vital artery for commerce and allows for convenient onward connections to global destinations via O.R. Tambo International Airport.
• Cape Town: Travelers can enjoy direct flights to the "Mother City," Cape Town. This service connects the Zambian capital with South Africa's premier legislative and tourist capital.
• Livingstone - Cape Town: To support regional tourism, the airline also offers direct connectivity between Cape Town and Livingstone, allowing visitors to easily combine a beach holiday with a safari adventure without transiting through a hub.

To secure the best fares with Proflight Zambia, it is highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance. Airfares often increase as the travel date draws nearer, particularly for high-demand routes connecting the airline's hub in Lusaka to major business and leisure centers like Johannesburg and Ndola.

Travelers should keep an eye out for seasonal promotions and special deals. Signing up for the airline's newsletter or following their official social media pages is a great way to stay informed about flash sales, which can offer significant savings on flights to destinations such as Cape Town and Livingstone.

For a seamless airport experience, take advantage of the online check-in service. This feature typically becomes available 48 hours before departure, allowing passengers to bypass long queues at the check-in counters. During this process, you can also select your preferred seat, whether you want a window view of the African landscape or the convenience of an aisle seat.

While planning your trip, consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. This adds a layer of protection against unexpected cancellations or changes to your itinerary. Additionally, using the airline's digital platforms to manage your booking ensures you have easy access to your boarding pass and real-time flight updates directly on your mobile device.

Founding and Early Vision
Proflight Zambia was established in 1991, born from the vision of a pilot, Tony Irwin, who sought to improve air connectivity within the region. Originally founded as Proflight Air Services, the company began its journey as a small charter operator. In its early years, it focused on providing personalized charter flights to tourists, business people, and government officials, utilizing small piston-engine aircraft to access remote bush airstrips and safari camps that larger carriers could not reach.

Transition to Scheduled Services
Recognizing a gap in the market for reliable, regular air travel, the airline made a strategic shift from purely charter operations to scheduled services. By 2004, the airline had begun to solidify its position as the backbone of Zambia's domestic aviation sector. This period marked a significant milestone as it established structured routes connecting its hub in Lusaka with key provincial centers such as Ndola and Livingstone. This transition was crucial in supporting the country's growing tourism industry, providing predictable connections for visitors traveling to Victoria Falls and national parks.

Fleet Evolution: The Jet Age
A major turning point in the airline's history was the modernization of its fleet to meet increasing passenger demand and longer route sectors. For many years, the Jetstream 32 and 41 turboprops served as the reliable workhorses of the fleet, favored for their ability to handle short runways. However, the airline entered a new era of capacity and comfort with the acquisition of its first jet aircraft, the Bombardier CRJ-100/200. The introduction of these jets significantly reduced flight times and allowed the carrier to offer a more premium experience on its longer regional routes.

Regional Expansion and Strategic Growth
As the airline matured, it looked beyond domestic borders to become a true regional player. A critical development was the launch of international routes to South Africa. The establishment of a direct service to Johannesburg was a game-changer, linking the Zambian economy directly to the commercial heart of the continent. More recently, the airline achieved another significant milestone by launching direct flights to Cape Town, a move that greatly facilitated multi-destination tourism for travelers wishing to combine a South African city break with a Zambian safari.

Modern Innovations and Global Partnerships
In recent years, Proflight Zambia has focused on integrating with the global aviation network. Moving away from isolation, the airline has forged strategic interline agreements with major global carriers such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines. These partnerships represent a modern innovative leap, allowing passengers to book a single ticket from anywhere in the world—including the UAE—straight through to local Zambian destinations. Today, the airline stands not just as a local operator, but as a key connector in Southern African aviation, continuously adapting its services to meet international standards.