Q&A with Kathy Van der Sanden, Customer Experience Supervisor


From stepping onto the tarmac for the first time to welcoming passengers on board with pride, Kathy Van der Sanden has witnessed fastjet Zimbabwe’s evolution from close range. With a background that bridges international experience and local passion, she reflects on how the airline has shaped her career and transformed the way Zimbabweans travel today.


Q. Looking back, what motivated you to apply for a job at fastjet?
A. What motivated me to join fastjet Zimbabwe was its pioneering story. It was the first locally based airline to operate in Zimbabwe, and that alone filled me with pride. I saw an opportunity to be part of something new and meaningful, something that truly belonged to us as Zimbabweans. The idea of helping to build a national airline that connected our people and carried our identity in the skies inspired me to be part of its journey from the start.


Q. How was the transition from working with a European legacy carrier to joining fastjet?
A. Coming to fastjet was both exciting and eye-opening. Moving from a large international carrier to a 50-seater environment meant adapting to a more hands-on, close-knit style of service. What stood out was the higher frequency of flights and the opportunity to engage with passengers more personally. Every flight brought a new experience and a new chance to make a difference. It reminded me that aviation is not just about the aircraft, but about people and the connections we help create.


Q. What impact do you think fastjet has made on travellers and the local aviation industry?
A. Fastjet has completely transformed how people view air travel in Zimbabwe. It has taught our communities that flying can be safe, reliable, and affordable. The airline has encouraged people to explore destinations of interest within the country and across the region. It has opened the skies to more Zimbabweans, giving families, businesses, and travellers new opportunities to connect. Every successful flight represents a step forward in how we travel as a nation.


Kathie Van der Sanden KATHY VAN DER SANDEN


Q. What advice would you give to young people aspiring to join aviation?
A. To those who dream of joining aviation, I would say this: understand your customers, have passion for service, and always put safety first. This is an industry that demands heart, patience, and continuous learning. The smallest gestures, from a warm smile to calm reassurance, make a big difference to passengers. Always take pride in what you do and never lose sight of the purpose behind the uniform.


Q. Lastly, why do you love fastjet so much?
A. I love fastjet because it has shaped me into the person I am today. It has taught me that work becomes meaningful when you are part of a strong team that feels like family. The spirit of unity and shared purpose makes every challenge worthwhile. Fastjet is not just a workplace, it is a home filled with passion, pride, and people who believe in each other and in what we do.


Fastjet offers flexible booking change options and generous free baggage allowances across our network of flights. The lowest fares can be found on our website www.fastjet.com. Book now and join us in celebrating a decade of flying.

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