Entebbe, May 18, 2025 — Uganda Airlines yesterday launched its first-ever direct flight from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to London Gatwick Airport (LGW), marking a significant milestone in the national carrier’s international expansion strategy. The historic flight departed Entebbe at 10:15 AM local time and landed at Gatwick at 4:55 PM UK time.
The new route re-establishes direct air connectivity between Uganda and the United Kingdom after a decade-long hiatus and represents a major leap in strengthening bilateral ties. The nonstop service will operate four times a week — on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays — with same-day return flights from London.
Operated by the state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo, the route promises enhanced long-haul comfort, fuel efficiency, and an elevated travel experience. Uganda Airlines CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki, speaking at the launch event in Entebbe, highlighted the strategic importance of this new connection.
“This new route links Uganda to one of the busiest and most important aviation hubs in the world,” Bamuturaki stated. “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.”
The launch coincides with deepening trade and tourism relations between Uganda and the UK. According to the British High Commission in Kampala, Uganda’s exports to the UK over the past five years have totaled UGX 11.2 trillion (£2.3 billion), while total bilateral trade reached UGX 4.2 trillion (£860 million) in 2023.
Gen. Katumba Wamala, Uganda’s Minister of Works and Transport, emphasized the broader significance of the new route:
“This is a bridge for business, investment, and people-to-people connections. The direct flight cuts down on travel time and enhances the efficient movement of people and goods, boosting our economic growth.”
Tourism officials also hailed the development as a boost to Uganda’s international appeal. The UK remains one of Uganda’s largest source markets for tourists. With easier access to attractions such as mountain gorillas and the source of the Nile, the direct flight is expected to spur a surge in visitor arrivals and related revenue.
Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus Africa and the Middle East, lauded Uganda Airlines’ milestone:
“Airbus is honored to witness Uganda Airlines introduce the A330-800 on its first direct flight from Entebbe to London. This demonstrates the aircraft’s quality, efficiency, and reliability and significantly boosts international connectivity for East Africa.”
The launch is a key step in realizing the vision behind Uganda Airlines’ 2015 revival — to establish efficient, world-class air links and position Uganda as a hub for regional and global travel.
