Three air operators on Friday made their individual cases for grant of air services licences in Uganda.
During a public hearing held at Four Points by Sheraton in Kampala before the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority board, Flight Training Centre, Kampala Executive Aviation, and Aerojet made their cases for grant of licence by UCAA.
Flight Training Centre is seeking to undertake domestic and international non-scheduled passenger and cargo, training and aerial work while Kampala Executive Aviation, which is currently operating chartered flights, defended their application for aerial work and domestic and international scheduled passenger services.
On the other side, Aerojet Aviation Ltd applied for commencement of domestic and international non-scheduled passenger and cargo.
Speaking during the session, UCAA board chairperson, Justice Steven Kavuma said it was part of the authority’s mandate to promote transparency in licensing and ensure safety and efficiency in Uganda’s air transport industry.
“This forum provides a vital platform for us to engage with our aviation partners, to reflect on our collective progress and to strengthen the framework for service provision within Uganda’s dynamic aviation industry,” he said.
He noted that Uganda currently has 25 licensed air operators and has signed air service agreements with 59 countries, while 19 international airlines operate scheduled flights to and from Entebbe International Airport.
Kavuma encouraged local operators to form partnerships with Uganda Airlines and other carriers to expand connectivity and cargo movement.
“The authority strongly encourages all Ugandan licensed operators, both domestic and international, to explore synergetic partnerships and cooperative arrangements, such as code-sharing agreements with Uganda Airlines and other international carriers as such a powerful tool to enhance connectivity, stimulate passenger growth and boost cargo traffic for the benefit of Mother Uganda,” he said.
Acting UCAA Director General Hassan Musinguzi announced that Uganda was recently elected to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council for the 2025–2028 term, after securing 155 out of 185 votes during the Assembly in Montreal, Canada.
“Uganda is honored to assume this role and remains committed to advancing safe, secure, and sustainable air transport globally,” he said.
He said UCAA remains focused on maintaining fair competition and protecting consumer interests in the aviation sector.
Musinguzi revealed that Entebbe International Airport handled 1.13 million international passengers between January and June 2025—64,000 more than the same period in 2024. Cargo volumes also increased to 33,622 metric tonnes, driven by exports.
“The figures represent a year on year growth of 4.3% in arrivals and 7.6% in departures,” he said.
The new 20,000-square-meter terminal building at Entebbe, set to open by the end of this year, will increase capacity from 2 million to 3.5 million passengers annually.
Musinguzi said ongoing works at Jinja, Arua, Gulu, Soroti, Moroto, and Kisoro airfields are improving safety and operations.
The Kabalega International Airport project is 94 percent complete and expected to be operational in 2026.
“These efforts reflect our continued commitment to improving safety, efficiency, and service standards across the country’s aerodromes,” he said.
He added that Uganda’s air navigation systems have transitioned from ground-based to satellite-based technology, enhancing flight safety and efficiency.
With Uganda set to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Kenya and Tanzania, UCAA officials believe the country’s expanding aviation infrastructure will play a pivotal role in regional connectivity and tourism growth.
The hearing reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to fostering a robust, safe, and globally competitive aviation industry, while providing new opportunities for operators to contribute to the nation’s economic takeoff
