Uganda Airlines has taken another leap forward in its regional expansion strategy with the launch of new routes to Lusaka, Zambia, and Harare, Zimbabwe. This exciting development, which commenced on September 25, 2024, marks a pivotal moment for the airline as it aims to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth across East and Southern Africa.
The inaugural flight UR 720 departed Entebbe International Airport at 10:00 AM, landing in Lusaka at 11:45 AM. Shortly after, it continued to Harare, arriving at 1:30 PM. The return journey allows passengers to depart Harare at 2:15 PM and arrive back in Entebbe by 6:15 PM, providing seamless connections for travelers.
With these additions, Uganda Airlines now serves a total of 16 destinations, completing an initial phase of its strategic growth plan that aims to connect more regions across Africa and beyond.
According to CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki, this expansion is not merely a leap of faith but a well-thought-out progression that aligns with the airline’s 10-year strategic plan. This plan focuses on enhancing regional connectivity while preparing for long-haul operations.
The new routes are expected to boost both passenger and cargo transportation significantly, facilitating trade and tourism between Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Bamuturaki emphasizes that these routes will serve as feeders for long-haul markets, including future connections to London and other international destinations.
Economic impact
The introduction of flights to Lusaka and Harare is anticipated to stimulate economic activity in the region. It is projected that up to 9,000 passengers travel between Harare and Entebbe annually, a number that is expected to grow with the increased frequency of flights.
The airline’s focus on cargo transport is also noteworthy; it aims to capitalize on the trade potential between these countries by facilitating the movement of agricultural and mining products.
Mr. Adedayo Olawuyi, Chief Commercial Officer of Uganda Airlines, highlighted the importance of these routes in tapping into the underserved aviation market. With Abuja already added to the network earlier this month, Uganda Airlines is strategically positioning itself to become a key player in regional air travel.
The new triangular flight operation between Entebbe-Lusaka-Harare not only increases travel options but also enhances efficiency by creating a network effect. This means that flights will feed traffic into other destinations within Uganda Airlines’ growing network.
As Bamuturaki notes, “Our aspiration is to bridge the geographical gaps and connect East to West, North and South of Africa,” showcasing a commitment to improving regional integration.
Read Also: Uganda Airlines expands to Abuja – Nigeria, its 14th destination
A growing network
With the addition of Lusaka and Harare, Uganda Airlines continues to build on its vision of connecting Africa more efficiently. The airline currently serves a diverse range of destinations, including the already existing 14 below.
- Bujumbura, Burundi
- Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Juba, South Sudan
- Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
- Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Lagos, Nigeria
- Mogadishu, Somalia
- Mombasa, Kenya
- Mumbai, India
- Nairobi, Kenya
- Johannesburg, South Africa
- Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Abuja, Nigeria
Related: Why Uganda Airlines Takes Flight with a New Airbus Lease
