Entebbe — In a landmark moment for Uganda’s aviation industry and its global outlook, Uganda Airlines today launched its first-ever direct flight from Entebbe International Airport to London Gatwick, re-establishing a vital air link between the two nations for the first time in nearly a decade.
The maiden flight UR110, operated by the Airbus A330-800neo, took off at 9:25 a.m. and was celebrated by dignitaries, aviation leaders, and government officials both in Uganda and the United Kingdom.
“We are proud to be the first carrier to operate the Airbus A330-800neo into London Gatwick,” said Jennifer Bamuturaki, CEO of Uganda Airlines. “This flight symbolises our commitment to sustainable aviation and reconnecting Uganda to the world.”
The new Entebbe–Gatwick service, now Uganda Airlines’ 17th destination, will run four times a week—on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Bamuturaki emphasised that the route is designed to offer seamless onward connections to Europe and North America while aligning the return schedule with the airline’s expanding African network of 14 destinations and counting. “On the return leg, flight times are carefully synchronised to ensure smooth connections across our growing African network linking passengers from London to key destinations in East, Central, and West Africa.”
Gen. Katumba Wamala, Uganda’s Minister of Transport and Works, underscored the significance of the new connection. “We are not flying to London for donations or NGOs. We are going to attract investors, promote trade, and showcase Uganda’s tourism potential. It’s time to convince the world to invest in Uganda,” he said.
According to Katumba, when President Museveni championed the revival of Uganda Airlines in 2015, his vision was to create direct air links that reduce travel time, and Today’s Launch brings that vision closer to full realisation. “The direct service to London Gatwick enables faster, more efficient movement of people and goods by eliminating layovers. This is a win for exporters, importers, and travellers alike – and a driver of growth for our economy.”
“We’re not just launching a flight, we are launching opportunities—from cargo to coffee, tourism to trade,” said H.E. Lisa Chesney, British High Commissioner to Uganda. “This new direct route is a game-changer.”
According to her, this direct flight makes it more convenient than ever for British Tourists to explore Uganda’s diverse natural attractions, from the mountain gorillas to the source of the Nile. The flight comes amid growth in trade and tourism ties between Uganda and the UK.
Adel B. Al-Redha (Emirates Airline and Emirates Group Chief Operating Officer, and Senior VP, International Affairs) called it a milestone that truly showcases how the A330neo delivers superior quality, efficiency, and operational reliability, all while significantly boosting East Africa’s global connections.
“It’s an honour for Airbus to see Uganda Airlines launch its inaugural direct Entebbe-London route with the A330-800. At Airbus, we are privileged to provide these highly innovative aircraft that are empowering Uganda Airlines’ intercontinental expansion and commitment to world-class service.”
Permanent Secretary Ramathan Ggoobi of the Ministry of Finance described the flight as a “takeoff for Uganda’s economic future,” listing four major wins: more tourists, cheaper exports, easier investor access, and stronger UK–Uganda ties—all aligned with the country’s ambition of reaching a $500 billion economy.
Trade in goods between the UK and Uganda exceeded GBP 680 million in 2023, with Uganda’s cumulative exports to the UK over the past five years amounting to GBP 2.3 billion.
Uganda Civil Aviation Authority’s Deputy Director General, Ms. Olive Birungi, hailed the route as a “historic milestone,” the result of three years of collaboration that is expected to significantly boost tourism, trade, and Uganda’s GDP.
Ms. Priscilla Mirembe Serukka, Chairperson of the Uganda Airlines Board of Directors, called the launch a “moment of pride and purpose” that also positions Uganda as a rising aviation hub in the region.
Senior Captain Sam Masaba piloted the historic flight, joined by Captain Clive Okoth and Senior First Officer Martin Drichi. Passengers aboard were also treated to a curated Ugandan in-flight dining experience, including the airline’s signature smoked beef luwombo.
As the aircraft soared into the skies bound for London, Uganda not only reconnected with one of its oldest international routes but also sent a clear message to the world: the Pearl of Africa is open for business, tourism, and investment, on its own wings.
The new service will operate four times weekly: Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, with same-day return departures from London.
The route is operated by Uganda Airlines’ state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo, offering long-haul comfort, fuel efficiency, and an elevated passenger experience.
