ENTEBBE, Uganda – Uganda Airlines launched its inaugural direct flight to London Gatwick on Sunday, May 18, 2025, with officials emphasizing the route’s potential to significantly enhance trade and investment between Uganda and the United Kingdom.
The nonstop service, operating four times weekly, is expected to streamline cargo transport and facilitate easier travel for business professionals, according to statements made at the launch. The inaugural flight departed Entebbe at 9:25 a.m. local time, arriving in London at 4:55 p.m. local time. The route is serviced by Uganda Airlines’ Airbus A330-800neo aircraft.
Uganda Airlines CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki highlighted the strategic importance of the London route for economic growth. “This launch is more than just a new route; it marks a pivotal milestone in Uganda Airlines’ journey,” Bamuturaki said, noting its potential to link Uganda’s growing African network with global markets. “With today’s departure, we officially transition from our establishment phase into a new chapter of long-term growth and expansion,” she added.
Bamuturaki also mentioned the use of sustainable aviation fuel. “On the return leg, we will operate with a blend of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and conventional Jet A-1 fuel, taking a meaningful step toward the industry’s Net Zero goals,” Bamuturaki said.
Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, echoed this sentiment, describing the flight as a “bridge between Uganda and one of the world’s most important commercial, tourism, and diaspora hubs.” He emphasized the anticipated benefits for exporters, importers, and investors in both countries.
“This route opens new doors for trade, tourism, and investment,” Wamala stated. “It means faster cargo delivery for our exporters, easier travel for our diaspora, and one more reason for the world to come visit, invest, and partner with Uganda.”
Wamala also acknowledged the demand for this route. “For years, Ugandans in the UK have asked, ‘When will we have a direct flight home?’ Well, I’m proud to say the wait is over,” he said. “Uganda Airlines has answered that call for a route that has been underserved for a long time.”
British High Commissioner to Uganda, Lisa Chesney, also underscored the economic advantages of the direct connection. “There is no better time to be launching this flight, than now when our two countries are committed to fostering stronger trade and economic ties,” Chesney said.
Chesney pointed out the potential for increased exports of Ugandan goods to the UK market. “With direct flights, we can streamline cargo transport, making it easier for fresh Ugandan products such as fish, coffee, fruits & vegetables and flowers to reach the UK market,” Chesney said.
Chesney cited data indicating the current trade volume and the potential for growth. “The latest data shows that UK-Uganda trade was worth about 600 million pounds in 2024 (around 3 trillion UGX). I think we can do better than that!” said Chesney.
She also acknowledged the collaborative effort in establishing the route. “This flight would not have happened without the dedication, hard work and collaborations between teams in Uganda and in the UK,” Chesney said.
The inaugural flight’s departure coincides with efforts to promote Uganda and Ugandan investment opportunities in London, including the East Africa Trade and Investment Forum. “We are flying to London on a mission to promote Uganda, Ugandan investment opportunities and to forge new connections between government and private sector,” Chesney said.
Uganda Airlines is the national carrier of the Republic of Uganda and began commercial operations in August 2019. The airline currently offers scheduled flights to 16 destinations in Africa.
