Uganda has taken a major step toward expanding its global aviation footprint following a week of intensive bilateral engagements at the 17th ICAO Air Services Negotiation event (ICAN2025) in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
The Ugandan delegation, comprising senior officials from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, Ministry of Works and Transport, Uganda Airlines, and the East African Civil Aviation Academy, leveraged the platform to strengthen international cooperation and open new air travel corridors.
By the end of the forum, Uganda had initialled six new Memoranda of Understanding on Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASAs) with Argentina, Eswatini, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Guyana. A revised BASA with Qatar was also concluded, reinforcing ties with key global aviation markets.
These agreements are expected to expand commercial flight operations into and out of Uganda, enhance route options, stimulate competition, and improve passenger experience.
Beyond bilateral deals, Uganda actively contributed to discussions shaping the global aviation agenda, including policy reforms, the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), and broader liberalisation efforts. These were highlighted during the YD Day activities on November 14, underscoring Africa’s push toward an integrated air transport system.
Uganda’s strong showing at ICAN2025 signals its ambition to position itself as a competitive aviation hub, boost tourism, open new trade channels, and support sustainable sector growth.
The outcomes mark a strategic move toward deeper global integration and a more connected future for Uganda’s air transport industry.
