Mozambique’s LAM Suspends Lisbon, Lusaka, and Harare Routes

Mozambique’s national carrier, LAM – Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique, has suspended its Lisbon, Lusaka, and Harare routes due to financial losses totaling $21.3 million. The airline’s representatives announced the decision at a press conference in Maputo on February 18, citing unsustainable costs.

LAM’s only intercontinental service to Lisbon had accumulated $21 million in losses since its relaunch in December 2023 after a 13-year hiatus. The airline initially operated the route with a wet-leased Boeing 767-300ER and later a Boeing 777-200ER from euroAtlantic Airways. Delays and cancellations plagued the route, reportedly due to overdue lease payments. The airline had introduced promotional fares under the management of Fly Modern Ark, but the revenue could not sustain operations.

The regional routes to Lusaka, Zambia, and Harare, Zimbabwe, also suffered losses of $307,000. These flights were operated by LAM’s subsidiary, Mocambique Expresso, using an Embraer E145. The final flights took place in early January.

Spokesman Alfredo Cossa confirmed the airline is reviewing its Maputo-Cape Town route and shifting focus to profitable domestic services. LAM is undergoing restructuring to improve management efficiency and long-term financial sustainability.

Meanwhile, Mozambique’s government is working to privatize 91% of LAM by selling shares to public companies. It has also launched an international fleet renewal tender, inviting bids from 14 pre-selected firms to acquire three Embraer E190s and four Boeing 737-700s.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com