Uganda Airlines has made a historic return to Europe, successfully completing its first flight to the United Kingdom in decades. On Sunday, the airline’s Airbus A330-800neo touched down at London Gatwick Airport after taking off from Entebbe International Airport at 10:05 a.m., marking the start of direct flights between Uganda and the UK.
This is not the first time Uganda Airlines has flown to London. During the days of former president Idi Amin, the airline operated flights to London Gatwick. However, in 1989, those flights stopped as the country went through a period of political and economic instability. The recent revival of this route is not just a new development—it is a return to the skies and a powerful symbol of progress for Uganda.
Leading the inaugural flight was the Minister of Works and Transport, General Edward Katumba Wamala, along with a high-level delegation of Ugandan government officials. These included Minister of Trade Francis Mwebesa, officials from the Uganda Tourism Board, Kampala Capital City Authority, and the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development. The team is in the UK to strengthen ties, attract investment, and promote Uganda as a destination for tourism and trade.
UK High Commissioner to Uganda Kate Airey was also aboard the flight. She praised the new route as an exciting opportunity for both countries. According to her, this direct flight comes at the right time, when Uganda and the UK are looking to deepen their trade and economic relationship. She noted that members of the British Chamber of Commerce were already on board, eager to explore business prospects in Uganda.
General Wamala made it clear that the mission is about encouraging partnerships and economic growth. “We are not going to London to ask for donations,” he said. “We are going to seek investment. We will speak directly with people who can bring their businesses to Uganda. You are going out there to promote trade. We have what the UK and the world need—you must not come back empty-handed.”
The flight was piloted by Senior Captain Sam Masaba and Captain Clive Okoth. Upon arriving in London, the delegation received a warm and emotional welcome from the Ugandan community living in the UK. Many wore traditional outfits, waved national flags, and greeted the delegation with open arms and heartfelt joy.
The direct route from Entebbe to London is expected to significantly boost the number of travelers and goods flowing between the two countries. The convenience of flying directly between the UK and Uganda will make it easier for tourists, investors, and business people to connect with Uganda, supporting the growth of tourism and trade.
Ramathan Ggoobi, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, emphasized how important this new route is for Uganda’s development. He said the flight will not only grow tourism and business but also help Uganda access new knowledge and technologies. He added that more international destinations are being considered for future Uganda Airlines routes.
Uganda Airlines CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki expressed her gratitude to everyone who played a role in making this launch successful. She invited travelers to consider flying with Uganda Airlines between Uganda and the UK, promising quality service and a reliable connection.
The airline will now operate four flights a week to London Gatwick. With this direct route, Uganda is once again opening itself up to the world and showing that it is ready to grow, connect, and thrive on the global stage.
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