Uganda Airlines has launched its inaugural direct flight from Uganda to the United Kingdom, marking a significant milestone for the national carrier. The launch was officiated by the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala.
The direct flight to London Gatwick, set to commence on May 18, 2025, will be Uganda Airlines’ third international route outside Africa, following Mumbai and Dubai. This addition brings the airline’s total destinations to 17, including Abuja, Lusaka, Harare, Nairobi, Mombasa, Dar es Salaam, Bujumbura, Johannesburg, Dubai, Zanzibar, Lagos, Kinshasa, Mumbai, Mogadishu, Juba, and Kilimanjaro.
With an estimated 90,000 passengers traveling annually between Uganda and London, the new direct route will significantly cut travel time from 16 hours to just 9 hours. The flight is expected to boost trade, education, and tourism opportunities between the two countries.
Speaking at the launch event at the Sheraton Hotel, Gen. Wamala emphasized the importance of this development: “We are pleased that Uganda Airlines is stepping in to moderate the market, just as it has done on other routes. London, the airline’s 17th destination, marks steady progress in our transport network.”
Uganda Airlines CEO, Jenifer Bamuturaki, also expressed excitement about the expansion: “I am elated to announce the long-awaited direct flights to London. This route marks the end of our establishment phase and sets us on a path for long-term growth and expansion.”
She added, “The London route follows meticulous planning and preparation. As we celebrate our fifth anniversary, this milestone is a testament to our commitment to providing timely and efficient service to our passengers.”
Established in May 1976, Uganda Airlines began operations in 1977 but was liquidated in 2001 after failed privatization efforts due to mounting debts. Its revival now positioned it as a competitive player alongside leading African airlines such as South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and RwandAir, as well as major international carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines that operate at Entebbe International Airport.
