The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has launched a nationwide licence renewal exercise targeting aviation service providers in an effort to tighten regulation, improve safety compliance, and restore higher operational standards in the country’s aviation industry.
The exercise was officially rolled out following a stakeholder engagement meeting that brought together members of the licensing committee and aviation industry operators to deliberate on professionalism, regulatory enforcement, and service quality improvement.
Speaking to journalists, UCAA Deputy Director General Olive Birungi Lumonya emphasized that the authority is determined to ensure that all aviation companies operating in Uganda fully comply with established safety and operational requirements before their licences are renewed.
She disclosed that Uganda currently has 15 aviation companies engaged in various aviation-related services, but only five of them hold valid operating licences, a situation she said highlights significant gaps in compliance within the sector.
Lumonya explained that the renewal process will not be automatic, stressing that each operator must undergo strict assessment covering aircraft condition, maintenance standards, and full adherence to both national regulations and international aviation safety guidelines.
She further noted that the exercise is intended to reinforce accountability and ensure that only qualified and compliant operators are allowed to continue serving the public in Uganda’s aviation space.
Lumonya also highlighted ongoing government investment in aviation infrastructure, pointing to continued upgrades and development works at airports such as Gulu, Kasese, Kabalega, Kisoro, and Kidepo, which are expected to boost connectivity and strengthen tourism.
Despite challenges such as the recent Ebola outbreak that has disrupted travel and reduced tourism revenue, UCAA expressed optimism that stronger regulation combined with infrastructure development will position Uganda’s aviation industry for sustained growth and improved global competitiveness.
