Uganda Airlines is now offering direct flights between London Gatwick and Entebbe, making this connection the UK’s only direct connection to the African country.
The airline will offer flights between the two destinations four times a week, using the Airbus A330-800neo aircraft.
London Gatwick has been pursuing a strategy of developing routes across Africa, following Ethiopian Airlines’ arrival in November 2023. Likewise, a new Kenya Airways service to Nairobi is set to launch in July this year.
Uganda Airlines’ service will let travellers connect to 14 destinations throughout sub-Saharan Africa.
Gatwick Airport hopes the direct link to Entebbe will boost trade, tourism and investment between the two countries, highlighting that in 2024 total UK trade with Uganda was valued at GBP 606 million. Further, there are more than 200,000 Ugandans resident in the UK. This new service is therefore a response to increased demand for a direct service.
Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer at London Gatwick said:We are delighted to welcome Uganda Airlines to London Gatwick. This new route not only strengthens our position as a key gateway to Africa but also supports our vision of fostering economic growth and connectivity, particularly among new markets across Africa, Asia and the Middle East.
As the airport continues to grow, we are excited about the opportunities this new connection will bring, further supporting the regional economy alongside leisure travellers across the South East.
Jennifer Bamuturaki, CEO of Uganda Airlines also celebrated the flag carrier’s expansion into London.
Jennifer Bamuturaki, CEO, Uganda Airlines, said:This new London route marks a major milestone in Uganda Airlines' expansion strategy and reinforces our mission to connect Uganda to the world.
We are thrilled to offer UK travellers a direct, convenient path to the Pearl of Africa where they can experience unrivalled wildlife, breathtaking landscapes and warm Ugandan hospitality. We invite the world to come and discover the magic of our country.
Other African countries that can be reached by direct flight from London Gatwick are: Ghana, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Nigeria, Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia and Cape Verde.
