Aviation and Tourism Development in Zambia: The Case of Mfuwe International Airport and South Luangwa National Park

Chifwanti Zulu

Abstract: Aviation infrastructure plays a pivotal role in tourism development, particularly in remote wildlife destinations where air transport provides the most efficient and, in some cases, the only reliable means of access. Mfuwe International Airport (MIA), the primary gateway to South Luangwa National Park (SLNP), facilitates connectivity for both international and domestic tourists. It also supports tourism-dependent economic activities. Guided by three objectives: to explore the effects of aviation connectivity on tourist arrivals at MIA, to assess the economic benefits of air travel in promoting tourism in SLNP, and to identify challenges and opportunities for enhancing aviation's role in tourism promotion, this study investigates aviation's contribution to tourism growth using a design based on stakeholder interviews, document analysis and field observations. The findings show that aviation enhances destination accessibility, improves visitor experience and stimulates local employment and business activity. Despite its strategic importance, MIA operates below potential due to constraints such as an undersized terminal, limited navigational technology, insufficient airline connectivity and pronounced seasonality in tourist arrivals. The study concludes that targeted infrastructure investments, enhanced institutional coordination and strategies to diversify tourism demand across seasons are critical for maximising MIA's long-term contribution to tourism development and strengthening Zambia's competitiveness as a premier wildlife destination.

Keywords: Aviation, Tourism, Air Connectivity, Mfuwe International Airport, Economic Impact

How to Cite?: Chifwanti Zulu, "Aviation and Tourism Development in Zambia: The Case of Mfuwe International Airport and South Luangwa National Park", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 471-474, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251204221735, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251204221735