Uganda Airlines breaks silence on UK permit revocation for new London Gatwick route

Kampala, (UG):- Uganda Airlines has dismissed as untrue the social media claims suggesting that its rights to operate flights to the United Kingdom and the new London Gatwick Airport route have been revoked.

In a press statement issued on Sunday, March 23, 2025, the national carrier clarified that its Foreign Carriers Permit remains valid and preparations for its much-anticipated London Gatwick route which commences on May 18, 2025, are progressing as planned.

“We wish to address a false report circulating on social media regarding the purported cancellation of our rights to operate flights to the UK. Uganda Airlines would like to clarify that this information is untrue; our Foreign Carriers Permit remains valid and has not been revoked,” the airline stated.

“We are diligently preparing for the launch of our operations to London Gatwick, with the inaugural flight planned for May 18th, 2025,” it added.

Uganda Airlines reassured that it is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and ensuring a seamless travel experience for all our passengers. “We eagerly anticipate serving the London Gatwick route and facilitating new connections for our esteemed customers,”

New Route to Boost Connectivity and Trade

While launching the London Gatwick flights earlier this week, the Uganda Airlines CEO, Ms Jenifer Bamuturaki said the new route will mark a significant milestone in Uganda’s aviation industry, restoring direct air travel between Uganda and the UK for the first time in nearly a decade.

The flights, she said, will be operated four times a week using the airline’s Airbus A330-800neo, a modern aircraft designed for efficiency and passenger comfort.

The carrier’s expansion is expected to strengthen Uganda’s global connectivity and contribute to economic growth by making travel more accessible for both business and leisure passengers.

The airline’s leadership expressed shire optimism about the success of the new route and assured travelers of world-class service on the London-bound flights. “We appreciate your continued support and trust in Uganda Airlines as we embark on this new venture and the opportunities it presents.”