Uganda Airlines Launches Direct Flights to London

Uganda Airlines has officially announced the launch of its long-awaited direct flights between Entebbe and London Gatwick, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s five-year history.

The inaugural flight is set to take off on May 18, 2025, establishing a direct air link between Uganda and the United Kingdom for the first time in nearly a decade.

Speaking at the London Route announcement event in Kampala, Uganda Airlines CEO, Jenifer Bamuturaki, hailed the launch as a turning point for the airline and the country.

“This route marks the end of our establishment phase and sets us on the course for long-term growth and expansion,” Bamuturaki said.

“It follows meticulous planning, preparations, and many setbacks, but finally, we are there. It also gives me great pleasure that we celebrate our 5th anniversary with this milestone.”

The new service will operate four times a week, using the state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo, which offers Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class seating.

The flight times have been optimized for seamless connections to North America and Europe, as well as key African destinations via Uganda Airlines’ expanding regional network.

Bamuturaki emphasized that the direct connection to London will enhance business, trade, and tourism ties between Uganda and the UK.

“This route connects Uganda to critical business and tourism markets in Western Europe and beyond,” she said.

“It also provides a more efficient route for exporters of fresh products to the UK, supporting the rapid growth of Ugandan exports.”

According to the Grant Thornton Wings of Opportunity report (2024), Uganda’s exports to the UK were valued at $22.6 million last year.

With the airline’s cargo capacity and plans to enhance its cargo operations, these figures are expected to rise significantly.

Uganda Airlines’ expansion into the European market is part of a broader strategy to position Entebbe as an alternative hub for air travel in East Africa. The airline has already expanded its African network to 14 cities and plans to open more routes within Africa to strengthen long-haul connectivity.

Government and Stakeholder Support

The launch was attended by Minister of Works and Transport, General Edward Wamala-Katumba, the British High Commissioner to Uganda, members of the Uganda Airlines Board, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, and business leaders.

Bamuturaki acknowledged the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, the Ministry of Works and Transport, and the Ministry of Finance for their continuous support in making the London route a reality.

“We would not have reached this point without the active guidance of the Uganda Airlines Board, management, and staff. Special thanks also go to the British High Commission for their proactive role in ensuring that critical doors were opened for us in the UK,” she added.

A Boost for Ugandan Tourism

Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa”, has long been a popular destination for British tourists, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and rich culture.

The direct flights are expected to attract more visitors by making travel between Uganda and the UK more accessible.

With Uganda Airlines’ hub in Entebbe offering seamless connections to destinations such as Johannesburg, Nairobi, Lagos, Accra, and Dar es Salaam, the airline aims to position itself as a key player in the African aviation market.

This story originally appeared in Chimp Reports