Uganda Airlines Takes Flight to London

Uganda Airlines, the national carrier of the Republic of Uganda, is excited to announce its expansion into the European market with the launch of direct flights to London Gatwick. Set to commence on May 18, 2025, this new route will feature four weekly nonstop flights between Entebbe International Airport (EBB) and London Gatwick (LGW), marking a historic milestone in the airline’s five-year journey. This service not only re-establishes a direct air link between Uganda and the United Kingdom after nearly a decade but also positions Uganda Airlines as a key player in connecting two vibrant markets.

The airline has tailored its flight schedule to maximize convenience for passengers. Operating on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, the flights are designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers. Most departures from Entebbe are night flights, allowing passengers to enjoy dinner in Entebbe and arrive in London for breakfast, except for the Sunday morning flight. Specific flight details include:

EBB to LGW:

• Sunday: Departs 09:25, Arrives 16:55
• Tuesday: Departs 00:05, Arrives 07:35
• Wednesday: Departs 00:25, Arrives 07:55
• Friday: Departs 03:10, Arrives 10:40

LGW to EBB:

• Sunday: Departs 19:05, Arrives 06:35
• Tuesday: Departs 09:40, Arrives 21:10
• Wednesday: Departs 09:50, Arrives 21:20
• Friday: Departs 12:40, Arrives 00:10

The route will be serviced by the cutting-edge Airbus A330-800neo, which features a three-class cabin configuration: 20 flatbed seats in Business Class, 28 seats in Premium Economy, and 210 seats in Economy Class. Passengers can expect a generous baggage allowance of up to 30 kg (two pieces) for Economy Class and 32 kg (two pieces) for Business Class, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.

Uganda Airlines is committed to delivering a memorable journey with competitive pricing, reduced travel times, and a focus on safety, convenience, and reliability. By eliminating stopovers, the airline offers one of the fastest connections between Entebbe and London, catering to the needs of both business professionals and leisure travelers. Tickets are now available for booking through the airline’s website, the Uganda Airlines app, booking offices, and authorized travel agents.

The decision to launch flights to London is based on a combination of market demand and strategic opportunities. Entebbe has long been identified as one of Africa’s top unserved markets for London, with travelers previously relying on multiple stopovers via the Middle East, Europe, or other African hubs. Uganda Airlines’ direct service fills this gap, offering a seamless travel option.

This route also strengthens economic and cultural ties between Uganda and the UK. The United Kingdom is a vital trading partner for Uganda, with significant potential for growth in exports such as coffee, tea, bananas, and cut flowers. Additionally, the UK is a major source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in sectors such as oil and gas, manufacturing, tourism, and financial services. The direct link is expected to catalyze these opportunities, enhancing Uganda’s competitiveness on the global stage.

Tourism is another key driver, with the UK ranking among Uganda’s top seven visitor markets. Known as “The Pearl of Africa,” Uganda boasts unparalleled attractions, including gorilla tracking, national parks, and a rich cultural heritage. The new route will make these experiences more accessible to British travelers, boosting Uganda’s tourism sector.

For the Ugandan diaspora in the UK, estimated at 51,000 Ugandan-born residents, alongside a larger community of Ugandan Asians—direct flights will foster stronger connections with their homeland. Similarly, the route will ease travel for Ugandan students pursuing education in the UK, a popular destination for higher learning.

Beyond convenience, the London route enhances Uganda’s air transport connectivity, supporting the country’s economic transformation. By reducing reliance on foreign operators, Uganda Airlines aims to make air travel more affordable for Ugandans while reinforcing its hub at Entebbe. The airline’s expanding network spanning destinations like Nairobi, Johannesburg, Lagos, and soon Accra further amplifies these benefits, offering seamless connections across Africa and beyond.

Since its inception in August 2019, Uganda Airlines has built a reputation for excellence, operating a modern fleet that has earned the Ch-Aviation Youngest Aircraft Fleet Award for five consecutive years. The launch of the London route is a testament to the airline’s ambition and its role in elevating Uganda’s presence in global aviation.

Chief Executive Officer Ms. Jenifer Bamuturaki expressed her enthusiasm: “This route is a game-changer for Uganda Airlines and our passengers. We’re proud to connect Uganda directly to London, fostering trade, tourism, and cultural exchange while delivering a world-class travel experience.”