Uganda Airlines’ London Route Reaches Full Capacity in Just Three Months

Uganda Airlines has reached full passenger capacity on its Entebbe London service only three months after the route was launched.

Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Bamuturaki said the performance has even drawn attention from airport operators in London.

“We have carried full flights to a point that even the airport operator where we land is asking, ‘Why is this happening so soon?’ Because it’s unusual for a new airline route to achieve such results this quickly,” she said.

The direct Entebbe London Gatwick flights began on May 18, 2025, operating four times a week on the Airbus A330-800neo. The service restored Uganda’s direct air link to Europe after nearly a decade.

According to Bamuturaki, demand has been strong both in passenger bookings and cargo.

“London has boosted our cash flow because passengers’ book much earlier compared to other routes. That improves our liquidity and overall financial position,” she explained.

On the cargo side, the airline has seen a steady rise in volumes. “From just a few kilograms on the first flight, we are now carrying full loads out of both Entebbe and London,” she said.

The CEO attributed the success to the benefits of a direct service and promotional incentives. “We have cut journey time by eliminating stopovers, and out of London we offered three free checked bags as a promotion to attract passengers,” Bamuturaki noted.

She added that the route has also increased Uganda Airlines’ visibility internationally. “London has helped open us to the world. Many didn’t know Uganda Airlines was flying this far, but now we are also in a position to bring more tourists into the country,” she said.

Uganda Airlines says it is optimistic about further growth, with the London route seen as a key milestone in its expansion plans.