Uganda Airlines has officially launched its highly anticipated direct flight route from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to London Gatwick Airport (LGW), marking a significant milestone in the airline’s international expansion and strengthening ties between Uganda and the United Kingdom.
The inaugural flight, which departed at 09:25 AM local time today, is currently en route and expected to touch down at Gatwick at 4:55 PM local time.
The new nonstop service, operated by Uganda Airlines’ modern Airbus A330-800neo, will run four times a week—on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays—offering same-day return flights from London.
This route follows the airline’s recent expansion into Abuja, Lusaka, and Harare in late 2024, further solidifying Entebbe as a key hub for regional and international travel.
Uganda Airlines CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki hailed the launch as a game-changer, stating, “This route connects Uganda to one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, with flight times designed for seamless connections across East, Central, and West Africa.”
Also read: https://plusnews.ug/uganda-airlines-soars-to-new-heights-with-maiden-flight-to-london/
The airline aims to cater to both business and leisure travelers, offering long-haul comfort and fuel efficiency with its A330-800neo aircraft.
The launch underscores the growing economic and cultural ties between Uganda and the UK. According to the British High Commission in Kampala, bilateral trade reached GBP 860 million in 2023, with Uganda’s exports to the UK totaling GBP 2.3 billion over the past five years.
Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Gen. Katumba Wamala, emphasized the broader impact, saying, “This is a bridge for business, investment, and people-to-people connections, fulfilling President Yoweri Museveni’s vision for a revived Uganda Airlines.”
Tourism is also expected to see a significant boost, with the UK being one of Uganda’s largest sources of inbound tourists. Direct flights are likely to attract more visitors to explore Uganda’s attractions, from mountain gorillas to the Nile River.
Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus Africa & Middle East, praised the milestone, noting, “It’s an honor for Airbus to see Uganda Airlines launch this route with the A330-800neo, showcasing the aircraft’s efficiency and operational reliability.”
As Uganda Airlines continues to expand its network—now covering 16 destinations in Africa—the airline remains committed to sustainable aviation and world-class service, further positioning itself as a key player in the region’s aviation landscape.