Uganda Airlines finally launches flights to London after a 5-year wait
Beginning May 18, 2025, the airline will operate four nonstop flights per week between Entebbe International Airport and London Gatwick.
Uganda Airlines has officially launched its highly anticipated direct flights to London Gatwick, marking a significant milestone for the national carrier.
Starting May 18, 2025, the airline will operate four weekly nonstop flights between Entebbe International Airport and London Gatwick. This marks Uganda Airlines’ first-ever European route and re-establishes a direct air link between Uganda and the United Kingdom after nearly a decade of absence.
The CEO of Uganda Airlines, Ms. Jenifer Bamuturaki, expressed her enthusiasm about the announcement, noting that this new route will contribute to the airline’s long-term growth and expansion.
“This route signifies the conclusion of our establishment phase and sets us on a path towards sustained development,” she stated at the launch event.
A Long Wait
The CEO of Uganda Airlines, Ms. Jenifer Bamuturaki, described the journey to secure the London route as a challenging five-year endeavor. She revealed that the airline had initially secured slots for the UK in 2020; however, the COVID-19 pandemic introduced a host of setbacks that delayed progress.
“We acquired slots for the UK in 2020, but COVID disrupted travel and led to changes in many regulatory systems, impacting our ability to complete the necessary processes on time,” she explained.
Key Benefits for Uganda and the UK
The new direct flight route between Entebbe and London is set to strengthen ties between Uganda and the United Kingdom, providing benefits to both nations in several ways. The UK has historically been a significant source market for tourism to Uganda, with British travelers eager to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture.
The introduction of this direct service will enhance convenience, making it easier for British tourists to visit Uganda and experience all that the “Pearl of Africa” has to offer.
Additionally, the route will support Ugandan exporters. Uganda’s exports to the UK were valued at $22 million in the previous year, and the new flights will create a more efficient transportation route for fresh products to reach their UK destinations. Ms. Bamuturaki emphasized the airline’s commitment to bolstering export growth, noting that Uganda Airlines’ cargo capacity, supported by the state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo, will enhance Uganda’s trade capabilities.
Strategic Expansion and Future Plans
The launch of the London Gatwick route is part of Uganda Airlines’ broader strategy to expand its network. With flights now operating four times a week, the airline will significantly bolster its presence at Entebbe International Airport. This route aligns with Uganda Airlines’ goal of becoming a central hub for air travel in East Africa.
In the coming years, Uganda Airlines plans further expansion within Africa, with new routes expected to complement the London service. Ms. Bamuturaki indicated that the airline is working towards increasing its fleet and enhancing its offerings. “Once London is operational, we intend to open up a few more destinations in Africa, helping to feed into our long-haul flights,” she noted.
This new route is anticipated to reduce flight time from the typical 16 hours to just 9 hours, providing passengers with a more efficient travel experience. As Uganda Airlines continues to grow and expand its global network, this direct connection to London is poised to serve as a significant catalyst for future success.
