Uganda Airlines is moving closer to launching its direct route between Entebbe and London Gatwick, a key milestone in its international expansion strategy. According to The Daily Monitor, the national carrier has already integrated the route into its booking system, although tickets are not yet available for purchase.
Aviation experts cited by the newspaper suggest that this signals the completion of necessary approvals, bringing the airline one step closer to commencing operations in the United Kingdom.
Route Confirmation and Official Announcement
Uganda’s Ministry of Works and Transport confirmed the existence of the route but deferred further details to Uganda Airlines. Meanwhile, Shakila Rahim, the airline’s Head of Corporate Affairs, told the newspaper that an official announcement will be made soon.
UK Negotiations and Fleet Expansion
The Daily Monitor reports that Uganda Airlines is still in discussions with UK authorities to secure final approvals. The new route is expected to boost trade and tourism between Uganda and the UK.
As part of its growth strategy, Uganda Airlines is investing in a fleet modernization program. The airline has plans to acquire up to four Airbus A320neo aircraft, with deliveries set to begin in 2031.
Additionally, the carrier has leased an Airbus A320-200 from Global Airways (South Africa) to strengthen its operations in Johannesburg, complementing its existing flights to Lagos and Nairobi.
Expansion Plans: Boeing Freighters and Dreamliners
Uganda Airlines is also in preliminary talks with Boeing to purchase two Boeing 777 Freighters and Boeing 787 Dreamliners, enhancing both its cargo and passenger capacity.
CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki recently expressed excitement about the upcoming London route, stating:
"We are thrilled about the prospect of launching direct flights to London. This will not only increase our revenue but also enhance connectivity between Uganda and the UK. The launch of our London route will be a significant milestone in our expansion journey."
Current Fleet and Network
Uganda Airlines currently operates a fleet of seven aircraft, consisting of:
- Four Bombardier CRJ-900s
- Two Airbus A330-800neo
- One Airbus A320
From its hub at Entebbe/Kampala International Airport, the airline serves Bujumbura, Mumbai, Dar es Salaam, Dubai, Kinshasa, Johannesburg, Kilimanjaro, Juba, Lagos, Mombasa, Mogadishu, Nairobi, and Zanzibar.
According to Cirium data obtained by Aviacionline, Uganda Airlines operates an average of 208 flights per week, offering approximately 31,000 seats.
The airline relaunched in August 2019, reviving the former Uganda Airlines, which operated from 1977 to 2001.
Entebbe’s Current European Connectivity
Currently, European flights from Entebbe International Airport are operated by:
- KLM – Five weekly flights from Amsterdam
- Brussels Airlines – Daily flights from Brussels
- Turkish Airlines – Daily flights from Istanbul
With the upcoming Uganda Airlines London route, Entebbe’s connectivity to Europe is set to improve significantly.
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