NATIONAL
Uganda Airlines has announced a new route to Asia with three weekly direct flights from Entebbe to Mumbai India.
Following a productive dialogue with the Indian Association of Uganda, Jennifer Bamuturaki, the Executive Director of the airline, revealed that after a span of four decades, both Ugandans and Indians can now enjoy the convenience of direct flights on the Asian routes, beginning this coming September.
The Crane,” will embark on its journey to Mumbai on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Uganda has approximately 35,000 Indians, many of whom travel back to India accompanied by their families at least once a year.
The purpose of the meeting was to introduce the airline’s schedule to the Indian community and to understand their expectations from the national carrier.
In response, the community expressed interest in additional flight routes. Apart from Mumbai, they are keen to witness Uganda Airlines extending its services to Ahmedabad and Delhi as well.
The Indian High Commissioner to Uganda Upender Singh Rawat expressed his gratitude for the direct flights emphasizing the wide-ranging opportunities they will unlock.
These include improved accessibility to medical facilities, expanded business prospects, and enhanced tourism possibilities.
The airline has also fulfilled all the prerequisites to initiate flights to Lagos, Nigeria. Jennifer Bamuturaki confirmed that they have achieved a 100% completion status for Lagos and have acquired foreign operator permits to commence operations.
Uganda Airline staff led by CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki pose for a group photo after the meeting
Uganda Airline staff led by CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki pose for a group photo after the meeting
She elaborated that this new route will be operational in the final quarter of the year, specifically between October and December. Furthermore, the airline has registered approval for flights to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
In an effort to diversify its reach, Uganda Airlines has also taken strides toward extending its services to Guangzhou, China. All necessary requirements have been diligently fulfilled, marking a completion of all preparations for this venture.
“So we are just waiting for them to get back to us whether there is any other documentation they require before they grant us the rights to fly there.” Bamuturaki said
These strategic expansions reflect Uganda Airlines’ commitment to enhancing travel options and connectivity, fostering economic ties, and embracing new opportunities across diverse regions.
