Entebbe Airport Soars: Record Passenger Numbers Signal Tourism Boom
Entebbe International Airport, Uganda's primary aviation gateway, has registered its second-highest monthly passenger count, welcoming 213,217 international travelers in June 2025. This remarkable achievement, confirmed by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), underscores the airport's growing prominence as a key hub for regional and international travel, presenting exciting opportunities for African travel agents.
This surge in passenger traffic reflects a broader trend of growth at Entebbe. In May 2025, the airport recorded 198,052 passengers, demonstrating a consistent upward trajectory. The June figures represent a significant increase, with a daily average of 7,107 arrivals and departures, just shy of the 7,171 daily average recorded in December 2024, the airport's busiest month to date.
Several factors have contributed to this impressive performance. The return of pilgrims from the Hajj pilgrimage, coupled with intensified tourism promotion efforts, robust business travel, and a series of international conferences held in Uganda, have collectively fueled the surge in passenger numbers. This confluence of events highlights Uganda's growing appeal as a destination for both religious and business tourism, as well as its increasing role as a regional center for conferences and events.
Entebbe's strategic location, coupled with ongoing infrastructure enhancements, positions it as a vital link for travelers exploring East Africa. The airport serves as a gateway to Uganda's renowned wildlife parks, including Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park, attracting tourists from around the globe. Furthermore, its expanding network of regional and international connections makes it an increasingly attractive hub for travelers transiting to other destinations in Africa and beyond.
The growth in passenger traffic is not limited to a single month. Entebbe has experienced a consistent upward trend over the past two years. In 2023, the airport handled 1.93 million international passengers, a figure that jumped to 2.24 million in 2024, representing a year-on-year growth rate of over 16%. This sustained growth underscores the airport's resilience and its ability to capitalize on the recovery of the global travel industry.
Beyond passenger traffic, Entebbe also plays a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce. In June 2025, the airport handled 6,293 metric tonnes of cargo, comprising 4,332 metric tonnes of exports and 1,961 metric tonnes of imports. This robust cargo throughput reflects Uganda's growing integration into regional and global trade networks, with Entebbe serving as a vital conduit for goods flowing in and out of the country.
Entebbe International Airport's impressive performance in June 2025, combined with its sustained growth trajectory, presents significant opportunities for African travel agents. The airport's expanding passenger numbers, enhanced connectivity, and robust cargo handling capabilities create a dynamic environment for travel professionals to develop innovative itineraries and cater to the evolving needs of their clients. By leveraging Entebbe's strategic position and its growing importance in the regional aviation landscape, travel agents can unlock new avenues for growth and contribute to the continued expansion of the African travel market.
Entebbe's success story is not just about numbers; it's about the airport's transformation into a modern, efficient, and passenger-friendly facility. Ongoing infrastructure developments, including the construction of a new passenger terminal and upgrades to cargo handling facilities, are further enhancing the airport's capacity and appeal. These investments are not only improving the travel experience for passengers but also strengthening Uganda's position as a key player in the African aviation sector.
For African travel agents, Entebbe International Airport represents more than just a destination; it's a gateway to opportunity. The airport's continued growth, coupled with Uganda's rich tourism offerings and expanding business landscape, creates a compelling proposition for travel professionals seeking to expand their horizons and tap into the dynamism of the African travel market. As Entebbe continues to soar, it promises to take the African travel industry to new heights.
