Uganda Airlines Direct Flights to London: A Game-Changer for Business and Development.
Kampala, May 19, 2025
Uganda Airlines has successfully launched direct flights between Entebbe International Airport and London Gatwick, marking a historic milestone in the country’s aviation sector and opening new avenues for economic growth. The inaugural flight departed Entebbe on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 09:25 AM local time, arriving at Gatwick at 4:55 PM local time.
Strengthening Economic Ties
The new direct route represents a significant step toward strengthening bilateral trade, tourism, and investment links between Uganda and the United Kingdom. According to data from the British High Commission in Kampala, total trade between the two countries reached GBP 860 million in 2023, with Uganda’s cumulative exports to the UK over the past five years amounting to GBP 2.3 billion.
Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Gen. Katumba Wamala, described the launch as “more than a flight,” calling it “a bridge for business, investment, and people-to-people connections.” He emphasized that the direct service enables faster, more efficient movement of people and goods by eliminating layovers, benefiting exporters, importers, and travelers alike.
Tourism Boost Expected
The UK remains one of Uganda’s largest source markets for inbound tourism. The new direct flights make it more convenient than ever for British tourists to explore Uganda’s diverse natural attractions, from mountain gorillas to the source of the Nile.
“This direct flight makes it more convenient than ever for British tourists to explore Uganda’s diverse natural attractions. We anticipate a strong boost in tourism arrivals and associated revenues,” stated Gen. Wamala during the inaugural event.
A Vision Realized
The launch brings President Yoweri Museveni‘s vision closer to full realization. When he championed the revival of Uganda Airlines in 2015, his goal was to create direct air links that reduce travel time and cost, enhancing Uganda’s connectivity with global markets.
“Today’s launch brings that vision closer to full realization,” Gen. Wamala noted, highlighting how the direct service aligns with national development goals.
Operational Details
The nonstop service will operate four times weekly—Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday—with same-day return departures from London. The route is serviced by Uganda Airlines’ state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo aircraft, offering long-haul comfort, fuel efficiency, and an elevated passenger experience.
Uganda Airlines CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki remarked, “This new route connects Uganda to one of the world’s busiest and most strategic aviation hubs. On the return leg, flight times are carefully synchronized to ensure smooth connections across our growing African network linking passengers from London to key destinations in East, Central, and West Africa.”
Sustainable Aviation
Uganda Airlines is proud to be the first carrier to operate the Airbus A330-800neo into London Gatwick. The airline emphasized its commitment to sustainable aviation, with the return flight using a blend of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and conventional Jet A-1 fuel.
Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus Africa & Middle East, praised the airline’s milestone, saying, “It’s an honour for Airbus to see Uganda Airlines launch its inaugural direct Entebbe-London route with the A330-800. This milestone truly showcases how the A330neo delivers superior quality, efficiency, and operational reliability, all while significantly boosting East Africa’s global connections.”
Expanding Network
The London route is part of Uganda Airlines’ broader international expansion strategy. It follows the triple launch of services to Abuja, Lusaka, and Harare in the second half of 2024. These routes are key points for feeding the hub in Entebbe, strengthening Uganda’s position as a regional air transport hub.
Since commencing commercial operations in August 2019, Uganda Airlines has established itself as a key player in Africa’s aviation industry. The airline is a proud winner of the prestigious “Ch-Aviation Youngest Aircraft Fleet Award in the World” for five consecutive years, recognizing its leadership in maintaining a young, modern, and environmentally conscious fleet.
The inaugural flight carried both cargo and passengers, demonstrating the immediate market demand for this service. With cargo capacity on the A330-800neo, Uganda Airlines is positioned to support growing Ugandan exports to the UK, creating new opportunities for businesses and strengthening Uganda’s economy.
For the business community and development stakeholders, this direct connection represents not just improved travel convenience but a tangible step toward realizing Uganda’s Vision 2040 aspirations for economic transformation and global integration.