Uganda Airlines has announced a landmark expansion into the European market with the launch of scheduled flights to London Gatwick.
Commencing on 18th May 2025, the national carrier will operate four weekly nonstop flights between Entebbe International Airport and London Gatwick, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s five-year history.
Chief Executive Officer of Uganda Airlines, Ms. Jenifer Bamuturaki said that this new route represents Uganda Airlines’ first foray into Europe and reestablishes a direct air link between Entebbe and the United Kingdom after nearly a decade.
“The introduction of this service underscores the airline’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and fostering stronger ties between Uganda and the UK,” she noted.
Ms. Jenifer Bamuturaki, added that the direct flights will provide unparalleled convenience for travelers, catering to the growing demand for seamless travel between the two nations.
She further noted that Uganda and the United Kingdom share deep historical, cultural, and economic ties, and this new route is expected to bolster trade, tourism, and investment opportunities.
“Industry reports have consistently identified Entebbe as one of Africa’s most underserved markets for London, making Uganda Airlines’ entry a highly anticipated development,” she revealed.
Speaking at the launch, Minister for works and transport, Gen Edward Katumba Wamala stated “This route holds significant importance for both Uganda Airlines and Uganda as a nation. We expect direct flights between Entebbe and London Gatwick to boost trade relations between Uganda and the United Kingdom. This direct connection will facilitate swift movement of people, goods, and services; it will also benefit exporters and importers by reducing transit times and eliminating the need for layovers.”
In 2023, Uganda-UK trade accounted for GBP £556 million in value from Uganda; coffee, bananas, Vegetables, minerals, and other agro products topped the table.
“This accessibility is expected to increase tourist arrivals, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to our Gross Domestic Product. We also have a big Ugandan resident community in the UK. These flights will make it easier for them to check on loved ones. In short, the Entebbe-London Gatwick route is a strategic development that will advance Uganda’s economic interests, boost tourism, enhance national prestige, and strengthen international relations.” Minister said.
The flights will be operated using the state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo, ensuring a world-class onboard experience for our guests. The schedule has been carefully designed to enhance convenience for travelers, with seamless connections available via Uganda Airlines’ hub in Entebbe to its extensive African network. Key destinations include Harare, Lusaka, Nairobi, Lagos, Abuja, Juba, Mogadishu, Kinshasa, Mombasa, Bujumbura, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro, Johannesburg, and the upcoming Accra route.
About Uganda Airlines
Uganda Airlines is the national carrier of the Republic of Uganda, providing international scheduled air services across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and now Europe. Since commencing commercial operations in August 2019, the airline has earned a reputation for its young, modern, and efficient fleet. It has been honoured with the Ch-Aviation Youngest Aircraft Fleet Award in the World for five consecutive years, reflecting its commitment to excellence and innovation in aviation.
