By Dean Lubowa Saava
Kampala – Uganda’s economic prospects are poised for a significant boost with the upcoming launch of Uganda Airlines’ direct flights between Entebbe and London Gatwick on May 18, 2025, which is expected to drive trade, tourism, and economic growth, says Hon. Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport.
Uganda Airlines is launching direct flights from Entebbe International Airport to London Gatwick, a move that’s expected to bolster Uganda’s economy, boost trade, and enhance tourism. This new route is a major step in advancing Uganda’s strategic economic and tourism interests, according to Minister Katumba.
The flights are set to begin on May 18, 2025, and will operate four times a week, reestablishing a direct air link between Uganda and the UK after nearly a decade. Uganda Airlines will use its state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo aircraft for this route, ensuring comfort and efficiency for passengers.
This development is significant, as it fulfills President Yoweri Museveni’s vision of strengthening Uganda’s global connectivity. The route is also expected to boost visitor arrivals from the UK, which is a key source market for Uganda’s tourism industry
“When President Museveni championed the revival of Uganda Airlines in 2015, his vision was to create an air bridge that would reduce the time and cost of travel between Uganda and its key international markets. This direct connection to the UK is part of that vision.”
The Minister paid tribute to former UK High Commissioner Ms. Katie Airey and Lord Poppat, who played crucial roles in advocating for Uganda Airlines’ entry into the UK market.
A Game-Changer for Trade and Business
Minister Katumba emphasized that the new four-times-a-week service will play a pivotal role in strengthening trade relations between Uganda and the United Kingdom by providing a faster, more efficient transport link.
“Direct flights facilitate the swift movement of people, goods, and services,” he noted. “This will benefit exporters and importers by reducing transit times and eliminating layovers, ultimately leading to increased trade and economic growth.”
Uganda’s trade with the UK has been steadily growing. In 2023, trade between the two nations was valued at £556 million, with coffee, bananas, vegetables, minerals, and other agricultural products leading Uganda’s exports. The cargo capacity of Uganda Airlines’ Airbus A330-800neo will further support Uganda’s agricultural and mineral exports to the UK.
Additionally, the Minister pointed out that Uganda Airlines’ entry into the London market will help regulate airfares, offering travelers a more affordable alternative compared to existing carriers.
“You might recall that Uganda has not had direct flights to the UK since British Airways suspended services in November 2015. This created great inconvenience for travelers and increased costs due to the lack of competition. Uganda Airlines is now stepping in to moderate the market, just as it has done on other routes,” he added.
Boosting Uganda’s Tourism Industry
The new direct connection between Uganda and the UK is also expected to significantly boost Uganda’s tourism sector, Minister Katumba said.
“The UK has long been one of Uganda’s major source markets for inbound tourism. By offering a direct air link, we make it more convenient for British tourists to visit Uganda’s renowned national parks, wildlife reserves, and cultural attractions,” he said. “This accessibility will increase tourist arrivals, create jobs, and contribute to GDP growth.”
Currently, Uganda welcomes about 1.5 million tourists annually, generating an estimated $1 billion in revenue. The Minister expects the direct flights to increase these figures by attracting more UK-based visitors.
Moreover, the route will ease travel for the estimated 150,000 Ugandans living in the UK, providing a direct and affordable way to visit family and conduct business back home. Remittances from Ugandans in the UK currently amount to €300 million annually, further underscoring the economic ties between the two nations.
A Strategic Move for Uganda Airlines
Uganda Airlines CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki described the launch of the Entebbe-London Gatwick route as a turning point for the airline’s growth.
“This route marks the end of our establishment phase and sets us on the course for long-term expansion,” Bamuturaki said. “It elevates Uganda Airlines’ international profile, enhances our global competitiveness, and strengthens Entebbe’s position as an emerging East African aviation hub.”
The flights will be operated on the airline’s Airbus A330-800neo, featuring Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class seating. Flight schedules have been optimized to provide seamless connections to Uganda Airlines’ growing network, including key African destinations such as Johannesburg, Nairobi, Lagos, Accra, and Dar es Salaam.
A National Milestone
As Uganda Airlines prepares for its first European long-haul route, Minister Katumba expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who made the launch possible, including the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, the British High Commission, and the Ministry of Finance.
“This new route is a strategic development that will advance Uganda’s economic interests, boost tourism, enhance our national prestige, and strengthen international relations,” he said.
Tickets for the Entebbe-London Gatwick flights are now available for booking through www.ugandairlines.com, the Uganda Airlines mobile app, and authorized travel agents.
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