ENTEBBE, Uganda – Uganda Airlines began direct flights from Entebbe International Airport to London Gatwick on Sunday, May 18, 2025, amid hopes for increased trade and stronger ties between Uganda and the United Kingdom.

The inaugural flight departed Entebbe at 9:25 a.m. local time, arriving at Gatwick at 4:55 p.m. local time. The airline will operate the route four times weekly, on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with same-day return departures from London.

The route will be serviced by Uganda Airlines’ Airbus A330-800neo aircraft.

Uganda Airlines CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki called the launch “a pivotal milestone” for the airline. “With today’s departure, we officially transition from our establishment phase into a new chapter of long-term growth and expansion,” Bamuturaki said during the inaugural ceremony.

Bamuturaki also highlighted the airline’s focus on sustainability, noting that the return flight would use a blend of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and conventional Jet A-1 fuel, “taking a meaningful step toward the industry’s Net Zero goals.”

Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, described the launch as “a very important milestone” and the opening of “a new chapter in Uganda’s aviation story.”

“This is more than just an air route; it’s a bridge between Uganda and one of the world’s most important commercial, tourism, and diaspora hubs,” Wamala said.

Wamala acknowledged the demand from Ugandans in the UK for a direct connection, stating, “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 added that Uganda Airlines has “answered that call for a route that has been underserved for a long time.”

The minister emphasized the potential benefits of the new route for trade, tourism, and investment. “This route opens new doors for trade, tourism, and investment,” Wamala said. “It means faster cargo delivery for our exporters, easier travel for our diaspora, and one more reason for the world to come and discover the Pearl of Africa.”

Wamala noted that the inaugural flight carried both cargo and passengers. “On this inaugural flight, we are already flying with cargo and enthusiastic passengers who have been waiting for this opportunity. That shows you the existing hunger in the market for this kind of service,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and Uganda Airlines. “I wish to express my appreciation to President Museveni for his vision, guidance, and commitment, which have enabled us to reach this milestone,” Wamala said. “Allow me also to thank the team at Uganda Airlines for their tireless efforts to make this happen.”

British High Commissioner to Uganda, Lisa Chesney, emphasized the timeliness of the new route for fostering stronger trade relations.

“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 also highlighted the potential for increased trade through streamlined cargo transport, noting opportunities for Ugandan products in 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 that UK-Uganda trade was worth about 600 million pounds in 2024 and suggested there was 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!” Chesney said.

She acknowledged the collaboration between Ugandan and UK teams 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.