Monday, May 19, 2025
Uganda Airlines has commenced nonstop flights connecting Entebbe International Airport and London Gatwick as of Sunday, May eighteenth, two thousand twenty-five, marking a significant advancement in air travel between Uganda and the United Kingdom. This new connection is expected to strengthen commercial partnerships, boost tourism, and open fresh avenues for investment between the two nations.
The inaugural flight took off from Entebbe at nine twenty-five in the morning. local time and arrived at London Gatwick at four fifty-five p.m. local time, officially inaugurating a vital air link. Uganda Airlines will operate this route four times weekly—on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays—with convenient same-day return services from London, providing efficient travel options for both business and leisure travelers.
This route is operated using the airline’s state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo, a contemporary wide-body aircraft renowned for its fuel efficiency and superior passenger comfort. The selection of this advanced aircraft reflects Uganda Airlines’ commitment to offering high-quality travel experiences alongside environmentally responsible operations.
This launch marks a strategic shift for the carrier, moving beyond its early operational phase toward expanding its footprint in international long-haul markets. Notably, return journeys will be powered by a blend of Sustainable Aviation Fuel combined with conventional jet fuel, underscoring the airline’s dedication to lowering emissions and supporting global sustainability objectives within the aviation sector.
The new direct route represents a major development for Uganda’s aviation landscape and broader economic growth. It is expected to facilitate increased trade, encourage tourism, and further integrate Uganda into global commerce through enhanced accessibility.
Moreover, this improved air connection will streamline cargo transportation between Uganda and the UK, unlocking new prospects for exporters. Faster and more reliable freight services will help Ugandan producers efficiently deliver goods such as coffee, tea, flowers, and other key products to the UK market, fueling export expansion.
In twenty twenty-four, the total trade exchange between Uganda and the United Kingdom was estimated to be approximately six hundred million pounds. With the launch of this nonstop flight, both countries anticipate further growth through improved logistics and reduced transit times.
The timing of this new service coincides with efforts to position Uganda as a compelling destination for foreign investment. The country’s engagement in prominent platforms like the East Africa Trade and Investment Forum in London reflects its focus on attracting capital into sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and infrastructure development.
Since beginning commercial flights in August two thousand nineteen, Uganda Airlines has progressively broadened its route network, now serving sixteen destinations primarily across Africa. Adding the London Gatwick service signifies a key milestone in the airline’s plan to increase its presence on global long-haul routes.
This flight is designed to serve not only business travelers but also the substantial Ugandan diaspora residing in the UK, along with tourists and investors moving between the two countries. Providing a nonstop option shortens travel time and eliminates the need for layovers, enhancing convenience and passenger satisfaction.
The aircraft features spacious interiors, energy-efficient engines, and upgraded onboard amenities to ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Incorporating Sustainable Aviation Fuel into operations highlights Uganda Airlines’ proactive role in adopting greener technologies consistent with worldwide aviation sustainability trends.
Beyond passenger transport, the new London-Entebbe route will also support cargo services, enabling quicker shipment of perishable and valuable goods. This enhancement is expected to benefit Ugandan exporters by widening access to the UK market and driving export growth.
In conclusion, Uganda Airlines’ introduction of nonstop flights between Entebbe and London Gatwick marks a transformative moment for Uganda’s aviation sector and economy. It enhances international connections, boosts trade and investment, fosters sustainable aviation practices, and strengthens bilateral ties with the United Kingdom. This achievement demonstrates the airline’s readiness to expand globally and contribute substantially to the country’s continued prosperity.
