Mr. Luggya says that the relaunch of Uganda Airlines and the entry of new operators are expected to fuel further growth.

The cargo sector has also thrived, with the airport handling 61,000 metric tonnes in 2022 compared to 6,600 metric tonnes in 1991.

A new state-of-the-art cargo center has been established to meet the increasing demand for Ugandan exports, including fresh produce destined for markets worldwide. The entry of new operators such as Airlink, Air Arabia, and Air Kenya, has also furthered growth in passenger traffic, paving the way for increased tourism potential.

The cargo section handles cargo such as fresh produce, including fish, flowers, vegetables, and fruits, and constitutes a significant portion of Uganda’s exports, catering to markets in the Netherlands, Belgium, the Middle East, and others.

“To address the growing demand, that is why a state-of-the-art cargo center with an annual capacity of 100,000 metric tonnes has been established, effectively meeting the needs of exporters,” he adds.

The ongoing upgrade and expansion project at Entebbe International Airport has contributed to these positive developments. Currently, at 85% completion, the project includes strengthening runways, rehabilitating taxiways and aprons, and constructing a new terminal building. By the end of 2023, the airport’s capacity is set to increase from 2 million passengers to at least 3.5 million passengers annually.

To ensure efficient operations, a Terminal Operations Control Centre has been established, providing automation and improved management. This project, implemented with a grant of USD 9.5 million from the Government of South Korea, has delivered various systems such as the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), Airport Operational Database (AODB) system, and the ATS Message Handling System (AMHS). Additionally, capacity-building initiatives, including training of Ugandans in Korea, have been undertaken.

The commitment to expand connectivity is evident through the signing of Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASAs) with countries such as Finland, Colombia, and Nigeria, with more BASAs underway. Currently, 27 out of 51 BASAs have been operationalized, showcasing Uganda’s dedication to opening new air routes and attracting more operators to the country.

Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has been recognized for its commitment to quality management systems, with Entebbe International Airport and other aerodromes operated by UCAA receiving ISO 9001:2015 certification. This certification reaffirms the authority’s compliance with rigorous international standards.

Furthermore, UCAA has implemented the new Electronic Government Procurement System (eGP) and approved additional Aviation Training Organizations (ATOs), ensuring streamlined processes and expanding training opportunities for aviation professionals. The transition to satellite-based navigation has enhanced air traffic management, allowing for improved safety, efficiency, and capacity within Uganda’s airspace.

Notably, the introduction of free routing airspace within the Entebbe Flight Information Region has provided pilots with the flexibility to fly between points without following predefined routes, further optimizing operations.

Mr. Luggya attributes all this to a steady program of service delivery by the government of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) which has set out in its manifesto to improve the conditions of doing business in Uganda through an efficient air transport system that will improve the country’s exports and encourage more tourists to spend foreign currency here.