Uganda Airlines Restores Direct UK Flights After 10 Years

Uganda Airlines has officially launched its first-ever direct flight from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to London Gatwick Airport (LGW). This new route reconnects Uganda with the United Kingdom after nearly 10 years without direct air travel between the two nations.

The inaugural flight took off at 9:00 PM EAT aboard the modern Airbus A330-800neo, carrying more than 200 passengers, including tourists, business people, and members of the Ugandan diaspora.

The plane will fly four times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays from around 16 hours with layovers to just 9 hours.

Uganda’s exports in 2024 to the UK hit $22.6 million, and the airline hopes this route will help increase that number in the coming years. The flight will also help support Uganda’s growing tourism industry, showcasing attractions like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the source of the Nile.

The launch comes after years of preparation, including getting flight slots at Gatwick and approvals from aviation regulators in the UK and Europe. British High Commissioner to Uganda, Lisa Chesney, welcomed the development, saying it would enhance both economic and cultural ties.

Over 90,000 people are expected to travel between Uganda and the UK each year. The direct route is expected to serve this demand while easing congestion at London Heathrow.

Uganda Airlines is also planning a cargo-only flight to further support exports and trade.