Uganda Airlines Begins Flights Between Harare and Entebbe

Uganda Airlines has launched flights between Harare and Entebbe, responding to increasing air transport demand and potentially boosting bilateral trade. The airline aims to enhance its regional presence and also focus on cargo transportation, amidst growing foreign airline competition in Zimbabwe.

Uganda Airlines has officially commenced operations between Harare and Entebbe as of today, driven by a notable increase in air transport demand between the two nations. This new route is anticipated to enhance bilateral trade, with an estimated 9,000 passengers traveling between Harare and Entebbe, a number that is expected to rise further. While the immediate focus is on the Harare route, Uganda Airlines has expressed intentions to extend its services to include Entebbe-Lusaka-Bulawayo and Entebbe-Lusaka-Victoria Falls routes. A delegation from Uganda Airlines, which included Ugandan Minister of State for Transport Fred Byamukama, Minister of Finance Matia Kasaija, and Uganda Airlines board chairperson Mrs. Serukka Priscilla Mirembe, was warmly welcomed at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport by key government officials including Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona and Deputy Minister of Tourism Tongai Mnangagwa. Uganda Airlines further indicated that it intends to capitalize on the robust traffic flow between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The cost for a round-trip ticket between Harare and Entebbe is set between US$500 and US$600. This new venture aligns with Uganda Airlines’ strategic objective to broaden its route network within the region while also exploring cargo transportation opportunities, addressing the significant volume of freight exchanged between the two locations. The arrival of Uganda Airlines marks a significant addition to the Zimbabwean aviation sector, which currently accommodates over 20 foreign airlines motivated by rising passenger numbers, an expanding economy, a peaceful setting, vibrant tourism, and the Government’s open skies policy. Among these international carriers are Ethiopian Airways, South African Airways, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Kenya Airways, Euro Wings, British Airways Comair, Air Link, RwandAir, Air Tanzania, and Fastjet, among others.

The introduction of Uganda Airlines flights between Harare, Zimbabwe, and Entebbe, Uganda, responds to increasing air travel demand in the region. Approximately 9,000 passengers travel this route, underscoring its significance in enhancing trade relations. The move is part of a broader expansion strategy by Uganda Airlines aimed at growing its regional network, especially focusing on routes that connect with Zambia and promote cargo transportation. Moreover, the region is conducive to aviation growth due to its economic prospects and the government’s policies supporting open skies and increased foreign airline presence.

In conclusion, Uganda Airlines’ new flights between Harare and Entebbe signify a strategic response to the growing demand for air travel and trade facilitation in the region. With plans to expand further into neighboring countries and emphasize cargo opportunities, Uganda Airlines is poised to enhance connectivity and support economic growth in the area. This initiative also leverages the existing competitive landscape, where numerous foreign airlines are already operating, showcasing the region’s potential as an aviation hub.

Original Source: www.herald.co.zw