Uganda Airlines has officially announced the launch of direct flights between Entebbe International Airport and London Gatwick, a long-anticipated milestone in the airline’s growth and expansion strategy. This development comes as Uganda’s national carrier celebrates its fifth anniversary, solidifying its position as a key player in the global aviation industry.
The announcement was made by Uganda Airlines CEO, Ms. Bamuturaki Jenifer, who expressed excitement about the new route, emphasizing its significance in the airline’s journey.
“This route marks the end of our establishment phase and sets us on a course for long-term growth and expansion,” she stated.
Ms. Bamuturaki further highlighted that meticulous planning and thorough preparations had been undertaken to ensure the airline was ready to serve the route efficiently.
“London route follows meticulous planning and preparations… Finally, we are ready to get you to your destination in time,” she added.
The Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala, also acknowledged the significance of the new route in strengthening Uganda’s connectivity to international markets.
“Very soon, The Crane will be flapping its wings into the United Kingdom,” he remarked at the official launch event.
The direct flights to London will make the UK the third destination outside Africa served by Uganda Airlines, after Dubai and Mumbai. Gen. Wamala further noted that the airline’s expansion would contribute to stabilizing flight ticket prices, offering Ugandan travelers a competitive alternative.
“We are happy that Uganda Airlines is coming in to moderate the market as it has done on other routes. London, the 17th destination into which our national carrier will fly, signifies the steady progress of our transport network system,” he stated.
The new route is expected to significantly reduce travel time for passengers commuting between Uganda and the UK. Research indicates that approximately 90,000 passengers travel between the two destinations annually. With the launch of direct flights, Uganda Airlines aims to shorten the journey time from 16 hours to just 9 hours.
Mr. Adedayo Olwawuyi, the Chief Commercial Officer of Uganda Airlines, emphasized the economic and social benefits of the new route.
“The launch of a direct new route to London will shorten the journey from 16 hours to just 9 hours, and we are sure that it will enhance our trade, education, and tourism opportunities,” he noted.
Uganda Airlines will initially operate four weekly flights on the Entebbe-London Gatwick route. This service is expected to benefit not only business travelers and tourists but also Ugandans in the diaspora who frequently travel between the two countries.
With this bold step, Uganda Airlines is poised to strengthen its presence in international aviation, offering travelers a convenient and reliable option for travel between Uganda and the United Kingdom. As the airline continues to expand, stakeholders remain optimistic that this development will contribute significantly to Uganda’s economic growth, trade, and tourism industry.