Q&A with Matthew Makiwa, Flight Operations Engineer and Quality Assurance Auditor


Q. Looking back, what motivated you to apply for a job at fastjet?
A. What motivated me to apply for a job at fastjet was my passion for aviation and admiration for the airline’s vision. I was drawn to fastjet’s mission of making air travel more accessible and affordable, and I saw it as a place where I could grow, showcase my skills, and contribute meaningfully to its operations.


Q. Can you please shed more light on your experience with the airline?
A. I began my journey in aviation in 2015 as a Cabin Crew Member, where I learned the importance of safety, service, and teamwork. I later became a Flight Dispatcher, responsible for flight planning and coordination with crew, before moving into Customer Experience Supervision, leading teams to deliver high-quality service. Today, I serve as a Flight Operations Engineer and Quality Assurance Auditor, focusing on operational safety, performance monitoring, and regulatory compliance. A highlight of my journey was being part of the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) team that achieved certification, a proud moment that reflected our shared commitment to excellence.


Q. What would you say is the one thing that made you committed to fastjet Zimbabwe for a decade?
A. The one thing that has kept me committed is the airline’s resilience and its genuine care for people. I have grown from cabin crew to Flight Operations Engineer and QA Auditor, witnessing fastjet’s adaptability through both challenges and triumphs. The teamwork, development opportunities, and shared purpose continue to inspire my loyalty.


Q. During your time with the airline, what is the one day that you cherish the most?
A. The day we received our IOSA certification remains my most cherished. Being part of the team that prepared and passed the audit was an incredible achievement. It was a validation of our dedication, teamwork, and focus on maintaining world-class safety standards.


MATTHEW MAKIWA MATTHEW MAKIWA


Q. What impact would you say the airline has made in Zimbabwe and the region?
A. Fastjet has transformed Zimbabwe’s aviation landscape by making air travel affordable and reliable. It has strengthened tourism, business travel, and regional connectivity while creating jobs and building skills locally. Through achievements like IOSA certification, fastjet has also helped raise operational standards across the region.


Q. What advice would you give to young people aspiring to join aviation?
A. Be curious, disciplined, and ready to learn every day. Aviation is demanding but deeply rewarding. Start small, stay consistent, and believe in your growth. I began as a cabin crew member, and with passion and persistence, I now work in flight operations and quality assurance. Anything is possible when you stay focused.


Q. Lastly, why do you love fastjet so much?
A. I love fastjet because it is where I have grown, contributed, and continue to be inspired. It is more than just an airline; it is a home built on teamwork, purpose, and the shared vision of connecting people and communities through safe and affordable air travel.


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.