Uganda Airlines has officially launched its first direct flight from Entebbe International Airport to London Gatwick Airport, marking a significant milestone in the national carrier’s international expansion strategy. The inaugural flight departed Entebbe at 9:25 AM local time on May 18, 2025, and arrived at Gatwick at 4:55 PM local time.
This new route is set to operate four times weekly on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays—with same-day return departures from London.
The route is serviced by Uganda Airlines’ state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo, offering long-haul comfort, fuel efficiency, and an enhanced passenger experience.
Uganda Airlines CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki highlighted the strategic significance of the new route, stating, “This new route connects Uganda to one of the world’s busiest and most strategic aviation hubs. 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.” atta.travel
Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, emphasized the broader implications of the launch: “This is more than a flight; it is a bridge for business, investment, and people-to-people connections. The direct service to London Gatwick enables faster, more efficient movement of people and goods by eliminating layovers. This is a win for exporters, importers, and travellers alike—and a driver of growth for our economy.”
The British High Commissioner to Uganda, Ms. Lisa Chesney, also expressed enthusiasm about the new route, describing it as a “win-win” for citizens of both countries. She noted, “The historic flight is not only about connecting the two countries but also connecting their people.”
The launch comes amid growing trade and tourism ties between Uganda and the UK. According to data from the British High Commission in Kampala, total trade between the two countries reached GBP 860 million in 2023, while Uganda’s cumulative exports to the UK over the past five years amounted to GBP 2.3 billion.
Tourism stakeholders anticipate a significant boost in arrivals due to the new direct flights. Mr. Amos Wekesa, CEO of Great Lakes Safaris, remarked, “So many of the tour operators in the UK are also excited about the route and they want to send more tourists. Now you can just leave London in the morning on a Sunday, do a trip for seven hours, and fly back on a Monday without losing time connecting through other countries.”
Uganda Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer, Adedayo Olawuyi, reported strong demand for the new route, stating that over 3,000 tickets had been sold prior to the inaugural flight, with bookings extending into the next year. He emphasized, “The London route for Uganda Airlines is a game changer.”
The airline’s expansion into the European market is part of a broader strategy to enhance Uganda’s connectivity and economic growth. With the addition of London Gatwick, Uganda Airlines now operates scheduled flights to 18 destinations across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
For bookings and more information, please visit: www.ugandairlines.com