Uganda Airlines London Launch: Soaring Above the Fake News

Uganda Airlines is set to take off for London Gatwick on May 18, 2025, marking a significant leap for East African aviation. This exciting development has, however, been clouded by recent misinformation circulating on social media, falsely claiming the UK blocked the route due to human rights concerns. African travel professionals can rest assured – these claims are entirely unfounded.

The false narrative, spread through various social media posts, alleged that UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy suspended the flights, citing human rights abuses by the Ugandan government. These posts even attributed fabricated quotes to Mr. Lammy, further fueling the misinformation. Both Uganda Airlines and the Ugandan government swiftly refuted these claims, setting the record straight for the African travel trade.

In an official statement via its X account, Uganda Airlines confirmed its Foreign Carriers Permit remains valid and preparations for the inaugural flight are on track. The Ugandan Ministry of Transport echoed this confirmation, dismissing the social media rumors. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office also issued a supporting statement, reinforcing the veracity of the planned launch.

This new direct route between Entebbe International Airport and London Gatwick is a game-changer for African travel. Operated four times a week with the modern Airbus A330-800neo, the service offers comfortable seating options across business, premium economy, and economy classes. This enhanced connectivity opens doors for increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Uganda and the UK, presenting exciting opportunities for African travel agents.

The London Gatwick connection is a strategic move for Uganda Airlines, providing a vital gateway to the European market. This expansion complements the airline’s existing network, which spans various destinations across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The visualization below illustrates the airline’s current and planned routes, highlighting the strategic importance of the London link.


The launch of this route is not just a win for Uganda Airlines; it’s a triumph for African aviation as a whole. It demonstrates the growing strength and ambition of African carriers, connecting the continent to key global markets and fostering greater economic and cultural exchange. For travel agents, this translates into more diverse product offerings and the ability to cater to a wider range of client needs.

While human rights concerns in Uganda remain a topic of international discussion, these issues have not impacted the London Gatwick route launch. The UK government’s clear support for the flights underscores the distinction between these complex political matters and the ongoing development of vital air links between the two nations.

The timeline below provides a clear chronological overview of the events leading up to the launch, from the initial announcement to the dissemination and subsequent debunking of the false claims. This timeline reinforces the factual basis for the launch and provides valuable context for travel professionals.