Uganda Airlines launched direct flights from Uganda to the United Kingdom early this week, marking a significant milestone in the national carrier’s resurgence.
The inaugural flight touched down at London Gatwick Airport on May 18th, 2025, and the Airline will operate four times a week.
Uganda Airlines’ flights to London are scheduled for Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with return trips available on the same days.
This development is expected to boost trade and tourism between Uganda and the UK, leading to economic growth.
Jenifer Bamuturaki, Uganda Airlines’ Chief Executive Officer (CEO), said, “This new London route marks a major milestone in Uganda Airlines’ expansion strategy and reinforces our mission to connect Uganda to the world.”
Bamuturaki was part of a delegation of Ugandan officials who flew to London on the maiden flight, led by Gen. Katumba Wamala, the Minister of Works and Transport.
The delegation also included representatives from various sectors, including Francis Mwebesa, Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives.
The delegation’s main objective is to hold strategic meetings in the UK aimed at boosting tourism, strengthening bilateral ties, and attracting foreign investment to Uganda.
Gen. Wamala emphasised the importance of the mission ahead, saying, “We are not going to London to ask for donations. We are going there to seek investment. We’ll be engaging directly with potential investors, and we must convince them to bring their businesses to Uganda. We are going out there to promote trade.”
He stressed that the Ugandan government is keen to attract foreign investment, and the direct flights to London will provide opportunities for businessmen and women to promote Uganda as a destination for investment.
Economic Benefits
The former UK High Commissioner to Uganda, Kate Airey, who was part of the delegation, commended the new direct route for bolstering Uganda-UK relations, highlighting the opportune moment for increased trade and economic collaboration between the two countries.
“There is no better time to be launching a direct flight than when our two countries are committed to fostering stronger trade and economic links,” Airey said.
“I am thrilled to see members of the British Chamber of Commerce booked on this flight, already looking to leverage this new connection to drive investment and trade,” she added.
Airey noted that the launch of direct flights to London is a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between Uganda and the UK. The direct flights will have a positive impact on Uganda’s economy, including:
Increased trade
The UK is a significant trading partner for Uganda, and the direct flights will facilitate easier and more efficient trade between the two countries. In 2023, trade between the UK and Uganda reached US$1.1 billion, and this figure is expected to increase with the launch of direct flights.
Boost to tourism
The direct flights will make it easier for tourists to visit Uganda, promoting the country’s tourism industry and generating revenue for the economy.
Foreign investment
The flights will also provide opportunities for Ugandan businesses to attract foreign investment, promoting economic growth and development.
The launch of direct flights from Uganda to the UK by Uganda Airlines is a significant development that will boost trade and tourism between the two countries.
With its potential to increase trade, promote tourism, and attract foreign investment, this new route is expected to have a positive impact on Uganda’s economy, leading to economic growth and development