Uganda Airlines has reached full capacity on its London route just three months after its launch,the CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki has said.
Bamuturaki attributed the rapid uptake primarily to the direct service between Entebbe and London, which eliminates the need for passengers to stop at intermediary airports.
“We have cut journey time by offering a direct service. That alone has made a huge difference,” she said.
Promotional offers have also played a key role in attracting passengers. For flights out of London, Uganda Airlines allowed travelers to check in three bags at no extra cost, giving passengers a taste of the airline’s services and encouraging bookings.
“This promotion gave people a chance to fly with us and experience our product,” Bamuturaki explained.
Social media buzz has amplified the route’s visibility, with passengers sharing positive experiences online.
“London has helped open us to the world, as many people didn’t know Uganda Airlines was flying that far,” she noted.
The airline has also worked with Uganda’s High Commission in London to promote tourism and attract more travelers.
The route’s popularity has also surprised destination airport operators.
“They have asked us why we are seeing such full flights so soon after launching—not one or two flights, but daily, even in the current season,” Bamuturaki said.
Financially, the London route has improved cash flow and liquidity for Uganda Airlines. Passengers are booking earlier than on other routes, ensuring predictable revenue streams. Cargo demand has also grown, with flights now carrying full cargo loads compared to just a few kilograms initially.
Launched in May 2025, the Entebbe–London route marked Uganda Airlines’ first long-haul connection outside Africa, offering reduced travel time, passenger perks, and expanded cargo capacity. Bamuturaki emphasized that these factors combined have made the route highly attractive to both Ugandans traveling abroad and international visitors coming into the country.
“From convenience and comfort to promotions and visibility, all these elements together explain why our London route has reached full capacity in record time,” she said.
