ENTEBBE, Uganda — Entebbe International Airport, Uganda’s primary aviation hub, is set to undergo a major upgrade that will significantly enhance its passenger capacity and travel experience.
The upgrade, which is expected to be completed by 2033, will increase the airport’s passenger capacity from 3.6 million to 6 million annually. This expansion will enable the airport to accommodate the growing number of travelers, both domestic and international.
The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) announced the expansion plans, which are part of the authority’s long-term development strategy to meet growing aviation demands.
Fred Bamwesigye, director general of UCAA, emphasized that the expansion focuses on enhancing safety, security, and infrastructure at the airport. “We are focusing mainly on advancing safety and security in Uganda’s aviation industry, as well as expanding and upgrading facilities for the airport,” Bamwesigye said.
The recently improved terminal building, covering an additional 20,000 square meters, was officially opened in January 2024. It is designed to accommodate the increasing number of travelers, with capacity expected to rise from 3.6 million to 6 million passengers annually by 2033.
The UCAA’s broader development plan includes upgrades to runways, cargo facilities, and other critical infrastructure to support both passenger and freight demands.
In October 2024, Entebbe International Airport recorded 183,728 arriving and departing passengers, alongside 5,825 metric tonnes of cargo imports and exports.
The planned expansion aligns with regional trends as East African airports ramp up their capacities. Ethiopian Airlines recently unveiled a new terminal at Bole International Airport, increasing its capacity to 22 million passengers annually.
Among the major airlines that operate Entebbe airport are Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Kenya Airways, Emirates, and Rwandair.
The expansion of Entebbe International Airport is a significant step in bolstering Uganda’s aviation infrastructure and improving the country’s connectivity with global markets.
