With passenger numbers exceeding pre-pandemic levels, record-breaking cargo volumes, ambitious infrastructure upgrades, and a growing network of regional and international connections, Uganda’s aviation industry is soaring to new heights, promising better prospects for key industries such as tourism and trade.
Uganda’s aviation sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by steady post-COVID growth and strategic leadership from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA). There are all indications that the sector has rebounded strongly from the disruptions caused by the pandemic, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in key performance metrics.
The latest UCAA report, unveiled during the Stakeholders’ Engagement Breakfast on January 21, 2025, highlights a sector that is not only recovering but thriving. Passenger traffic at Entebbe International Airport reached an impressive 2.24 million in 2024, marking a 16.1% increase from 2023’s 1.93 million passengers. This growth reflects a significant milestone, eclipsing the pre-COVID benchmark of 1.8 million passengers recorded in 2019.
Cargo volumes have also surged, cementing Uganda’s position as a vital regional trade hub. In 2024, imports through Entebbe International Airport grew by 22.42%, totalling 22,233 tons, while exports rose by 9.66% to reach 44,865 tons. These figures underscore the role of air transport in facilitating economic growth and international trade.
Infrastructure Modernization Boosts Capacity
Central to the sector’s growth is the ongoing modernisation of Entebbe International Airport. The ambitious expansion project, now 95% complete, is set to increase the airport’s capacity from its current 2 million passengers annually to 3.5 million. Key upgrades, including constructing a larger Passenger Terminal Building and installing three additional aerobridges, are expected to enhance efficiency and passenger experience.
The upgrades are part of a broader strategy to position Uganda as a regional hub for air transport and connectivity. As of January 2025, 82% of the new terminal construction is complete, with final operations slated to begin by June 2025.
Regional Airports Thrive
The revitalisation of regional airports has been another success story under Bamwesigye’s leadership. Airports in key tourism and trade regions have experienced exponential growth, highlighting the increasing demand for domestic air travel. Arua Airport saw a staggering 92.2% increase in passenger traffic, handling 13,078 travellers in 2024. Similarly, Mbarara Airport recorded a 118% rise in passengers, while Pakuba and Gulu airports also registered significant growth at 52.5% and 35.9%, respectively.
This regional expansion aligns with Uganda’s broader development goals, as improved connectivity boosts tourism and trade, particularly in remote areas that are home to key natural and cultural attractions.
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A key factor in the sector’s resurgence has been the introduction of new airlines and expanded flight routes. In late 2024, Premier Airlines and Kush Air began operations, providing flights to Entebbe from Juba. Uganda Airlines also expanded its reach by launching routes to Abuja, Harare, and Lusaka in September 2024, further solidifying Uganda’s connectivity with the rest of Africa.
Most recently, Flynas inaugurated direct flights from Riyadh to Entebbe on January 16, 2025, reflecting growing international interest in Uganda as a destination for business and tourism.
Sustainability Takes Center Stage
As part of its forward-looking strategy, the UCAA has embraced sustainability as a core priority. The adoption of the ICAO Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) is a testament to this commitment. At Entebbe International Airport, green infrastructure such as permeable pavements, green roofs, and air quality monitoring systems are now in place to reduce the environmental footprint of aviation operations.
The UCAA has also modernised its air navigation systems with satellite-based Performance-Based Navigation (PBN), which improves air traffic efficiency, reduces fuel consumption, and minimises carbon emissions. These initiatives demonstrate Uganda’s dedication to aligning its aviation sector with global environmental standards.
Preparing for Major Global Events
Looking ahead, Uganda’s aviation sector is gearing up for major international events that will further spotlight the country on the global stage. The completion of Kabalega International Airport in Kabaale, designed to support the oil and gas sector, is one of the key infrastructure projects in the pipeline. Meanwhile, Gulu Airport is set to be upgraded into a code 4E international airport, complete with a modern passenger terminal and extended runway.
These developments are expected to play a pivotal role in Uganda’s preparation for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which the country will co-host with Kenya and Tanzania.
