Uganda Airlines has refuted claims that the British government has blocked its newly announced direct flights to London Gatwick, maintaining that its Foreign Carriers Permit remains valid. The national carrier issued a statement on March 23, dismissing rumors circulating on social media that UK authorities had revoked its rights to operate the route. 
“We wish to clarify that the information regarding the cancellation of our rights to fly to the UK is untrue,” Uganda Airlines stated. “Our Foreign Carriers Permit is valid and has not been revoked.” The airline reassured passengers that preparations for the inaugural flight to London Gatwick, set for May 18, are progressing as planned.
This clarification follows a report by The Sun, which suggested that UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy had ordered a suspension of the route due to Uganda’s human rights record. The article also claimed that UK officials were reviewing sanctions against Ugandan authorities, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government reportedly “embarrassed” by the Civil Aviation Authority’s approval of the flights.
Uganda Airlines had announced its new London route on March 18 as part of a broader expansion strategy, marking its first entry into the European market and restoring direct links between Uganda and the UK for the first time in nearly a decade. CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki described the development as a “breakthrough,” following years of planning and overcoming challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This route marks the end of our establishment phase and sets us on the path for long-term growth,” Bamuturaki said. “It connects Uganda to critical business and tourism markets in Western Europe and beyond.” She emphasized that the airline’s expanded African network, now including 14 destinations, laid the foundation for this move. The new London route will see four weekly flights from Entebbe, increasing Uganda Airlines’ weekly departures to 81 and solidifying its position as the largest operator at Entebbe International Airport.
In addition to passenger services, the airline expects its Airbus A330-800neo’s cargo capacity to boost Ugandan exports to the UK, valued at $22.6 million in 2024. The airline also plans to introduce a dedicated freighter, further enhancing trade between the two nations.
Bamuturaki noted, “This route will elevate Uganda Airlines’ international profile, increase our revenues, and support our continued expansion and operational sustainability.”
Despite recent media speculation, Uganda Airlines affirmed that its London operations are progressing as planned, with ticket sales and flight preparations continuing on schedule. The airline thanked its supporters for their trust as it embarks on this new venture.
While British authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the route, the UK Civil Aviation Authority has yet to confirm whether it is under review. However, the route’s announcement was attended by British High Commissioner to Uganda, Lisa Chesney, who emphasized the importance of the new connection in strengthening ties between the UK and Uganda.
“This flight is not just a route—it’s a connection that will benefit businesses, tourists, and the Ugandan diaspora in the UK,” she stated. Uganda’s Works and Transport Minister, Edward Katumba-Wamala, also highlighted the strategic significance of the route, which aligns with President Museveni’s vision of Uganda Airlines as an economic catalyst, enhancing trade, tourism, and international relations.
The Entebbe-London Gatwick route promises to further elevate Uganda Airlines’ profile and solidify its role in connecting Uganda to key global markets.
