Tanzania and Russia to Connect with New Direct Flights Starting July

Travelers between Russia and Tanzania will soon have a more convenient option as Air Tanzania prepares to launch direct flights starting July 2. The Tanzanian national carrier, which has never operated routes to Russia before, will run three weekly services connecting Dar es Salaam, Moscow’s Vnukovo Airport, and Zanzibar using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.

Russia’s Transport Minister Andrey Nikitin confirmed the development on Monday, saying the country’s aviation authority, Rosaviatsia, had received and approved Air Tanzania’s application. “The issue was handled quickly, and permission for flights has been sent to the airline,” Nikitin told reporters. He noted that the approval followed consultations between Russian and Tanzanian officials, thanking the Tanzanian side for their cooperative approach.

The new route marks a milestone in bilateral travel, offering a direct link for tourists and business travelers alike. Nikitin emphasized that Russia’s transport ministry will keep working to expand flight networks to and from the country, benefiting both Russian citizens and international visitors.

For Tanzanian officials, the service is expected to boost tourism and trade. Zanzibar, a popular Indian Ocean destination, could see an influx of Russian visitors, while Moscow gains another gateway to East Africa. The flights also provide an alternative for travelers who previously had to connect through hubs like Dubai or Istanbul.

With the first departure scheduled for early July, the stage is set for a new chapter in Russia-Tanzania travel.