AIQezsnYmvqnwTj0YiBWJ3qMosGdbEJBetfjV8gm
Bookmark

Uganda Airlines Debuts Direct Flights to London: An International Gateway Opens

On May 18, Uganda Airlines will commence direct flights between Entebbe and London Gatwick, reducing the journey time to approximately nine hours and reinstating a previously discontinued service.

This will mark the airline's initial foray into Europe as they extend their reach outside of Africa, which is a significant achievement since British Airways discontinued the service in July 2015 due to lack of commercial viability.

Uganda’s flag carrier anticipates that these new routes will enhance commerce, offering quicker connections to the UK which would particularly assist Ugandan businesses exporting goods like coffee, tea, and perishable items. The country’s Transportation Minister, Katumba Wamala, noted, "Improved connectivity should lead to an uptick in visitor numbers, create job openings, and bolster our GDP."

Mr. Wamala also mentioned that they anticipate reduced airfares on this particular route. "In the absence of competition, prices tend to rise significantly," he explained. "Uganda Airlines will help stabilize the market."

The airline, which was resurrected five years ago, initially concentrated on African routes but is now broadening its scope internationally. Following Dubai and Mumbai as long-haul destinations, London will become its third such location, with intentions to include Beijing in the near future.

Uganda Airlines, with 77 weekly flights departing from Entebbe Airport, stands as the largest airline operating at this hub. Once they add their services to London, the number of departures will rise to 81 per week. The airline operates a mixed fleet comprising three Airbus planes: an A320-200, an A330-800, and another A320-800, along with four CRJ-900 jets.

The airline’s CEO, Jennifer Bamuturaki, states that the expansion bolsters Uganda’s role in global aviation and supports the nation’s development objectives. "By enabling significant opportunities, these new routes are key components of both the National Development Plan and Uganda’s Vision 2040 strategy. In addition to reducing journey times for travelers, this service offers a more streamlined pathway for Ugandan producers of perishable goods heading to the UK." Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
Post a Comment

Post a Comment