London Gatwick enhances African connectivity with launch of UK’s only direct flight to Uganda

UGANDA – London Gatwick Airport has further cemented its status as a leading European hub for African connectivity by inaugurating the United Kingdom’s only direct flight route to Uganda.

The newly introduced service, operated by Uganda Airlines, connects London Gatwick with Entebbe International Airport and is poised to play a transformative role for both business and leisure travelers seeking seamless access between the UK and East Africa.

This milestone route, launched in May 2025, operates four times weekly using Uganda Airlines’ state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo aircraft.

The direct service not only offers a convenient and efficient travel option for the Ugandan diaspora in the UK but also supports the hospitality, tourism, and business sectors by providing a vital link for trade, investment, and cultural exchange.

The flight schedule is designed to maximize connectivity, with timings that cater to onward journeys throughout Africa and Europe, further enhancing Gatwick’s reputation as a gateway for international travelers.

For the hospitality sector, this new route is expected to drive increased demand for hotels, restaurants, and tourism experiences in both the UK and Uganda.

London’s vibrant hospitality industry stands to benefit from a rise in inbound visitors, while Uganda’s renowned national parks, wildlife reserves, and luxury lodges are now more accessible to British and European tourists.

The direct connection also opens new opportunities for tour operators, travel agents, and event planners, fostering stronger ties between the two countries’ travel and tourism industries.

Uganda Airlines’ choice of the Airbus A330-800neo underscores a commitment to passenger comfort and sustainability, featuring modern amenities, enhanced fuel efficiency, and a premium onboard experience.

The airline’s expansion into the UK market is part of a broader strategy to position Entebbe as a key aviation hub in East Africa, supporting Uganda’s ambitions to grow its tourism sector and attract international investment.

Stewart Wingate, CEO of London Gatwick, highlighted the significance of the new service, stating, “This direct route not only strengthens our airport’s connectivity but also supports economic growth, cultural exchange, and the hospitality sector on both sides.”

The launch is a testament to Gatwick’s ongoing efforts to diversify its route network and respond to evolving traveler needs.

As the only direct air link between the UK and Uganda, this route is set to become a cornerstone for business, tourism, and hospitality, reinforcing London Gatwick’s role as a dynamic bridge between Europe and Africa.

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