Uganda Airlines has announced the launch of its long-awaited direct flight from Entebbe International Airport to London Gatwick, set to commence on May 18, 2025.
This historic milestone marks the first direct flight between Uganda and the United Kingdom since British Airways exited the market, offering a major boost to trade, tourism, and economic growth.
Blessing
For Ugandan exporters dealing in fresh produce such as coffee, bananas, flowers, pineapples, and other perishable goods, this new route is a game-changer. The direct flight significantly reduces transit time, ensuring that fresh goods arrive in the UK market faster and in better condition.
Previously, exporters had to rely on connecting flights through other hubs, which increased costs and risked compromising product quality.
Uganda is one of Africa’s top producers of high-quality coffee, with the UK being a key market.
The availability of direct flights will streamline coffee exports, allowing fresher shipments and enhancing Uganda’s competitiveness in the European market.
Similarly, fresh flowers—one of Uganda’s high-value agricultural exports—will benefit from faster delivery, keeping them fresh for European consumers.
Tourism Industry
Beyond trade, the direct flights between Entebbe and London will play a crucial role in expanding Uganda’s tourism industry.
The UK remains one of Uganda’s biggest sources of tourists, and direct connectivity will make travel easier and more appealing for potential visitors.
Tourists from the UK will now have a seamless journey to explore Uganda’s breathtaking attractions, from gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park and the stunning landscapes of the Rwenzori Mountains.
The enhanced accessibility is expected to increase tourist arrivals, boosting revenue for the hospitality industry and creating job opportunities within the tourism sector.
Growth
Uganda Airlines’ CEO, Ms. Bamuturaki Jenifer, described the launch as a significant milestone for the airline’s growth strategy. “This route marks the end of our establishment phase and sets us on a course for long-term expansion. It gives me great pleasure that we celebrate our 5th year with this amazing achievement,” she stated.
The direct London route will become the airline’s third intercontinental destination after Dubai and Mumbai, reflecting steady growth and increased global connectivity.
The Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala, emphasized that Uganda Airlines will help moderate flight costs in the market while strengthening the country’s international transport network.
“I was there! Entebbe-London Gatwick route launched! Congratulations Uganda Airlines. Finally, a direct flight since British Airways exited the market. Meanwhile in the UK they are waiting for our pineapples and coffee with so much glee! Inaugural flight jets out on the 18/05/2025. The Crane will be flapping its wings into the United Kingdom,” The director of Government Citizen Interaction Center (GCIC) Marcella Karekye happily posted on X.
Flight Schedule
The airline will operate four weekly flights between Entebbe and London Gatwick:
EBB to LGW: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday
LGW to EBB: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday
Uganda Airlines’ new Entebbe-London route is a welcome development that promises significant economic benefits.
Exporters of fresh produce will gain faster access to international markets, while the tourism sector will experience a surge in arrivals from the UK.
As Uganda continues to strengthen its global trade and tourism ties, this direct flight is a clear step forward in cementing the country’s place on the world map.
