Uganda Airlines Announces Direct Flights to Kigali and Accra
Uganda Airlines is set to expand its African network with new direct scheduled services to *Kigali and Accra* later this year. The move comes as the national carrier pushes ahead with a major expansion plan and a fleet upgrade.
The state-owned airline said the two new routes will boost trade, tourism and investment, and will further position Entebbe as a key regional hub linking East, West and Southern Africa.
This announcement follows Uganda Airlines’ biggest growth push since it was revived in 2019.
Major Fleet Investment to Support Growth
The carrier has signed a Shs3.7 trillion ($982 million) deal with Boeing to purchase 10 new aircraft both passenger and cargo jets. The order includes Boeing 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner planes, aimed at increasing capacity and opening up more international destinations.
Why Kigali and Accra Matter
With Accra, Uganda Airlines will have its second West African destination after Lagos. The Ghanaian capital is one of Africa’s fastest-growing business and financial hubs.
The Kigali route will strengthen ties within the East African Community by connecting two of the region’s fastest-growing economies. It will also allow travelers to connect through Entebbe to other destinations across Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
Acting CEO Girma Wake said:
"The launch of Accra and Kigali is another major step in our growth plan. As air connectivity across Africa improves, these routes will enhance business and tourism links and give our customers more options. We remain focused on linking Africa and supporting regional integration through dependable air services.”
Boost for Cargo and Trade
The airline noted that the new routes will also grow its cargo operations. Exporters and importers will get faster access to markets in East and West Africa for fresh produce, manufactured goods and other time-sensitive products.
Part of a Bigger Strategy
Uganda Airlines already flies to destinations across East, Central, Southern and West Africa, plus London, Dubai and Mumbai. Adding Kigali and Accra fits its plan to build a strong intra-Africa network while using Entebbe as a gateway for global connections.
The expansion aligns with the rollout of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), which seeks to liberalize air travel on the continent by improving routes, cutting travel times and lowering business costs.
For Uganda, improved air links are seen as vital for growing exports, attracting investors, and supporting tourism especially with commercial oil production and rising regional trade expected to drive more business travel and air freight demand.