Uganda Airlines has announced the launch of direct flights to Abuja, Nigeria’s administrative capital, starting on September 12, 2024.
This expansion comes a year after the airline successfully introduced flights to Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub. The new route marks a significant step in strengthening the airline’s presence in West Africa and enhancing travel options between the two nations.
The inaugural flight UR 900 departed from Entebbe at 16:00 hours, landing at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport by 18:15 the same day.
The service will run twice weekly, on Thursdays and Sundays, utilizing the airline’s flagship Airbus A330-800neo aircraft. These new Abuja flights are linked to the existing Lagos route, offering broader access for travelers within Nigeria.
Expressing her excitement about the expansion, Uganda Airlines CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki said, “We are proud to be living up to our promise to take Nigeria to Uganda and bring Uganda to Nigeria. Abuja is now our 14th destination as we continue with our strategic expansion plan.”
She further stated that the airline’s commitment to providing affordable, efficient air travel across Africa, aimed at fostering stronger business, tourism, and leisure ties.
The new Abuja service is particularly significant, as the city is considered one of Africa’s most underserved markets. This route will help address the connectivity gap between Nigeria’s central regions and East Africa, enabling travelers from Abuja and nearby areas to connect seamlessly to Uganda Airlines’ other major destinations, including Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Mombasa, Mogadishu, Mumbai, and Dubai.
Since its relaunch in 2019, Uganda Airlines has quickly emerged as a key player in East Africa’s aviation industry. Recognized for maintaining the world’s youngest fleet from 2020 to 2024 by Ch-Aviation, the airline continues to offer scheduled passenger and cargo services to important regional and international markets, promoting better connectivity for both business and leisure travelers.
With the addition of Abuja, Uganda Airlines reinforces its commitment to expanding its African network, further strengthening ties between Uganda and Nigeria. The airline looks forward to delivering an enhanced travel experience and opening up more connections to global destinations.