Uganda Airlines has officially launched its first direct flight from Entebbe International Airport to London Gatwick Airport in the United Kingdom.

The inaugural flight, UR110, departed at 9:25 AM, carrying both passengers and cargo. This new service, operating four times a week—on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—marks Uganda Airlines’ debut in the European market and its 17th international destination.

Speaking at a celebratory event in Entebbe ahead of the flight, Jenifer Bamuturaki, CEO of the Civil Aviation Authority, described the launch as “a monumental day for Uganda Airlines and the people of Uganda.”

She emphasized the airline’s dedication to world-class service, noting that over 500 bookings had already been made for the new route. “These flights connect Uganda to key business, tourism, and trade markets in Western Europe and beyond,” she said, highlighting that the journey has now been shortened from 16 hours to just 9 hours.

As Uganda Airlines celebrates its fifth anniversary this year, Bamuturaki added that the London route signifies a period of rapid growth for the carrier. The airline now serves 14 African cities and has plans to expand further with long-haul routes to Asia and North America. “The Crane is flapping its wings to the world,” she remarked.

The launch event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Minister of Works and Transport, General Edward Katumba Wamala, and the British High Commissioner to Uganda, Lisa Cheney.