Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa has ordered Transport Minister Jorum Gumbo to bring home from Malaysia the four B777-200s acquired by Zimbabwe Airways. Meanwhile, the government will investigate the deal meant to replace flag carrier Air Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe requested the B777s, serials 29065, 29066, 28421, and 28422, be parked under government control until it can clarify and settle the murky situation.
Two of the four aircraft were paid for using US$34 million from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. All four aircraft are reportedly owned by said to be owned by Zimbabwe Aviation Leasing Company, but paperwork is missing from the official records.
Zimbabwe Airways was also expected to purchase to two ERJ145s, but the outcome of the transaction is unknown as well.
Current reports suggest that Zimbabwe Airways is either a private entity or meant to replace ailing Air Zimbabwe.
The investigation by the government is ongoing.