Uganda Airlines has officially launched direct flights between Entebbe International Airport and London’s Gatwick Airport, marking a key step in the national carrier’s global expansion strategy.
The inaugural flight departed Entebbe at 9:25 a.m. on Sunday, May 18, and was scheduled to arrive in London at 4:55 p.m. local time. These flights will operate four times a week — on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays — using the state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo, known for its long-range comfort and efficiency.
“This new route connects Uganda to one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, providing seamless links to our growing African network,” said Uganda Airlines CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki during the launch.
The move is expected to enhance trade and tourism between Uganda and the United Kingdom. According to the British High Commission in Kampala, bilateral trade reached £860 million (approx. UGX 124.8 billion) in 2023, while Uganda’s exports to the UK have totaled £2.3 billion over the past five years.
Minister of Works and Transport Gen. Katumba Wamala praised the milestone, calling it a realization of President Museveni’s vision to strengthen direct air connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
“The new Gatwick route eliminates layovers, cutting travel time for tourists and traders. This is a huge win for Uganda’s exporters, importers, and the wider tourism industry,” Wamala said.
He emphasized the UK’s role as one of Uganda’s largest sources of international tourists, noting that easier access will encourage more Britons to explore Uganda’s natural wonders — including the mountain gorillas and the River Nile.
The direct flights are poised to serve as a catalyst for deeper economic engagement and increased tourist arrivals, positioning Uganda as a more accessible and attractive destination on the global map.
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