Kampala, Uganda – May 18, 2025 – Uganda Airlines today launched its highly anticipated direct flight service between Entebbe International Airport (EBB) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW), marking a significant step in the airline’s international expansion and strengthening ties between Uganda and the United Kingdom.
The inaugural flight departed Entebbe this morning and is scheduled to arrive in London this afternoon.
This new route, operating four times a week (Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday) with same-day returns, follows Uganda Airlines’ recent launch of flights to Abuja, Lusaka, and Harare in late 2024, positioning Entebbe as a growing regional hub. The airline will utilize its modern Airbus A330-800neo aircraft on the London route, promising passengers enhanced comfort, fuel efficiency, and a superior travel experience.
Speaking at the launch, Uganda Airlines CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki highlighted the strategic importance of connecting Uganda to a major global aviation hub like London Gatwick. She also emphasized the convenient onward connections the route offers for passengers traveling between London and Uganda’s growing network in East, Central, and West Africa.
The commencement of direct flights comes at a time of increasing economic and tourism activity between the two nations. According to data from the British High Commission in Kampala, trade between Uganda and the UK reached £860 million in 2023, with Uganda’s exports to the UK totaling £2.3 billion over the past five years.
Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Gen. Katumba Wamala, underscored the broader impact of the new air link, stating that it will serve as a “bridge for business, investment, and people-to-people connections.” He noted that this development aligns with President Yoweri Museveni’s vision for the revived national carrier to provide efficient and cost-effective direct air travel.
The direct flights are also expected to significantly boost Uganda’s tourism sector, with the UK being a key source market. Eliminating layovers will make it easier and more appealing for British tourists to explore Uganda’s renowned natural attractions, including its mountain gorillas and the source of the Nile.
Uganda Airlines takes pride in being the first carrier to operate the Airbus A330-800neo into London Gatwick, demonstrating its commitment to modern and sustainable aviation practices. Gabriel Semlale, President of Airbus Africa & Middle East, congratulated Uganda Airlines on this milestone, recognizing the A330neo’s role in enhancing global connectivity for East Africa.
Since its commercial relaunch in 2019, Uganda Airlines has rapidly expanded its network to 16 destinations across Africa, earning several accolades, including the Ohana Awards’ “Best African Airline” for four consecutive years and the 2024 Skytrax award for its modern and environmentally conscious fleet.