Uganda airlines to commence flights to Zimbabwe in September

Uganda Airlines will launch new flights to Nigeria, Zambia and Zimbabwe starting September 2024, the airline has announced.

The move marks the second phase of the Uganda Airlines ambitious network development strategy.

The expansion begins with service to Abuja, Nigeria, taking off twice weekly on September 12 with a modern Airbus A330-800 aircraft.

This complements existing flights to Lagos, further solidifying Uganda Airlines’ presence in the west African market.

Later in September, on the 25, the airline will introduce even more frequent connections by offering four weekly flights to Lusaka, Zambia and Harare, Zimbabwe.

These routes will be operated by the efficient Bombardier CRJ-900 aircraft.

This expansion aligns with Uganda Airlines’ long-term vision. The new routes are part of a 10-year plan to create a robust network connecting East, West, North, and South Africa.

“Launching these routes marks the conclusion of our three-year strategic plan, paving the way for the next phase of our 10-year rolling plan,” chief executive Jenifer Bamuturaki said.

“We aspire to bridge the geographical gaps and connect East to West, North and South of Africa. This vision guides our route expansion, which is informed by feasibility studies pointing us to underserved routes.”

“The entry into these markets is meant to build an efficient and optimized regional market, which will feed and finance a more profitable long-haul market; grow the aircraft fleet utilisation, and create a robust regional network that will serve as a feeder for Uganda Airlines’ long-haul market, especially London, Mumbai, Guangzhou and Dubai and, most importantly, support Uganda Airline’s Africa network connectivity,” Bamuturaki said.

As the airline approaches its fifth anniversary in August 2024, the route expansion serves multiple purposes.

It optimises aircraft utilisation, strengthens the network to support long-haul routes, and positions Uganda Airlines as a key player in fostering stronger ties across Africa.

Uganda Airlines’ arrival in Zimbabwe is particularly noteworthy as it adds to a growing number of airlines choosing the country as a destination.

Last year, nearly 20 airlines were flying into Zimbabwe, a significant jump from only four in 2017, spurred by flourishing business opportunities across various sectors, particularly mining.

Last year, nearly 20 airlines were flying into Zimbabwe, a significant jump from only four in 2017. According to analysts, the surge in air traffic reflects the country’s improving economic climate and its growing attar-ebusinessweekly