Historic Takeoff: Uganda Airlines Makes Maiden Direct Flight to London

Entebbe | May 18, 2025 — History was made this morning as Uganda Airlines launched its maiden direct flight from Entebbe International Airport to London Gatwick, marking the first nonstop connection between Uganda and the United Kingdom in nearly a decade.

The landmark flight departed Entebbe at 9:25 AM, ushering in a new era of global connectivity for Uganda and cementing the national carrier’s growing international presence.

“Wheels up. We have lift-off. See you soon, London. We are London bound,” Uganda Airlines declared on social media, capturing the excitement of the moment.

The launch of this direct route is being hailed as a strategic step in boosting tourism, trade, and bilateral relations between Uganda and the UK.

Uganda Airlines CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki and Minister of Transport and Works, Gen. Katumba Wamala, praised the achievement as a significant milestone in the country’s aviation history.

The service to London Gatwick will operate four times a week—on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—offering travellers more convenience and reducing travel time by eliminating the need for layovers.

The launch is also a proud moment for Uganda Airlines, officially known as the Uganda National Airlines Company, which was revived in 2019 after the original carrier ceased operations in 2001. Since its rebirth, the airline has steadily expanded its routes, and the London launch is its most ambitious international venture yet.

The British High Commission in Kampala celebrated the moment, tweeting: “@UG_Airlines makes history with its maiden flight to Gatwick. A new era of global connectivity and strengthened mutual prosperity awaits.”

The onboard experience is curated to reflect Uganda’s cultural richness and hospitality, with Newrest Uganda Inflight Services offering a journey of flavour “from the soul of Uganda,” as passengers enjoy local cuisine en route to Europe.

As the aircraft soared into the morning sky, Ugandans both at home and abroad celebrated the moment as a powerful step toward national pride, economic opportunity, and a future of greater international integration.