Uganda’s aviation sector has registered a significant rebound, with international passenger traffic at Entebbe International Airport surpassing last year’s total even before the end of 2025, underscoring renewed growth in air travel, tourism and trade.
According to the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), Entebbe handled 2,247,145 international passengers between January and November 2025, already exceeding the 2,243,104 passengers recorded in the whole of 2024, with the traditionally busy December travel period yet to be accounted for.
Presenting the 2025 Status of the Aviation Industry in Uganda at a stakeholders’ engagement breakfast in Kampala, UCAA Director General Mr Fred Bamwesigye attributed the growth to expanded airline connectivity, a revival of global events, and sustained tourism promotion.
“The January to November 2025 traffic has already surpassed the entire 2024 passenger numbers, even before adding the busy December season,” Mr Bamwesigye said, describing the performance as a strong indicator of industry recovery and confidence
UCAA noted that overall air traffic growth was driven by the commencement of new routes, particularly by Uganda Airlines, which launched flights to London Gatwick, Harare and Kinshasa, alongside the entry of new international operators into Ugandan airspace.
The authority also cited the resumption of international conferences and major sporting events, including the African Nations Championship (CHAN), as key contributors to the increase in passenger volumes.
Cargo traffic has similarly shown resilience. UCAA reported that cargo volumes handled between January and November 2025 had already matched the entire 2024 figures, supported by a stable economic environment and increased international trade.
“Cargo traffic grew as a result of a stable economic environment and increased international trade,” Mr Bamwesigye noted.
The strong traffic growth comes as Uganda expands its airline network. The country is currently served by 19 international scheduled operators, with new routes launched in 2025 by carriers such as Flynas, Safarilink, Malawi Airlines, and Fanjet Express, further strengthening Entebbe’s regional and international connectivity
To support rising passenger numbers, the UCAA is preparing to operationalise a new 20,000-square-metre passenger terminal building at Entebbe International Airport starting January 2026.
Once fully opened, the new terminal will increase the airport’s annual capacity from 2 million to at least 3.5 million passengers.
“The new terminal will significantly enhance our handling capacity and improve passenger experience, positioning Entebbe to meet growing demand in the coming years,” Mr Bamwesigye said
Looking ahead, UCAA expects passenger and cargo traffic to continue growing as Uganda prepares to host major continental events such as the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027, while implementing long-term infrastructure projects, including airport upgrades across the country.
Despite the positive outlook, the authority acknowledged challenges, including funding constraints for upcountry aerodromes and limited land for expansion at Entebbe.
Nevertheless, Mr Bamwesigye said UCAA remains focused on strengthening safety, efficiency and sustainability in line with global aviation standards.
“Aviation must be mainstreamed at a strategic national level because of its clear linkages to tourism, trade and overall economic development,” he said
