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Giving oral evidence before a Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Transport, Communication and Infrastructural Development yesterday, Air Zimbabwe chief executive Dr Peter Chikumba said the ministerial committee would explore ways through which the airline could be assisted.

The committee — to be chaired by Transport, Communications and Infrastructural Development Minister Nicholas Goche — will comprise Finance Minister Tendai Biti, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Walter Mzembi and State Enterprises and Parastatals Minister Gorden Moyo. Dr Chikumba said issues such as debt overhang, poor load factors, working capital, ageing fleet, price wars, high seat costs and loss of skilled manpower would be considered by the inter-ministerial committee.

“These issues have been discussed and submitted to the shareholder and are under consideration by the inter-ministerial committee on Air Zimba-bwe,” he said.

“Due to competition, there are price wars on all the lucrative routes. The airline is being forced to charge market-driven fares, which are below the seat cost.

“While other airlines can afford to live with those fares due to their efficient equipment and high loads, Air Zimbabwe cannot, due to these issues.”

Dr Chikumba said the inter-ministerial committee would explore the best business model for the airline as Government sought to unlock the airline’s value.

The committee would look into options that include public-private partnerships.