Uganda’s aviation industry is entering a new era of expansion, investment, and opportunity, as an unprecedented number of airline operators seek approval to enter or expand within the country’s air transport market. The strong momentum was evident during the 53rd Air Services Licensing Committee meeting organized by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), where industry players, investors, regulators, and members of the public gathered in large numbers at Protea Hotel Kampala to witness a process expected to shape the future of Uganda’s skies.
The licensing exercise attracted fifteen applications, including ten new entrants and five existing operators seeking renewals or additional permissions. The impressive turnout highlighted rising confidence in Uganda’s aviation sector, with growing demand for passenger transport, cargo services, private aviation, aerial operations, and aviation training driving increased interest from both local and international investors.Among the companies pursuing fresh licences are Cubic Air SMC Limited, Misk Air Limited, Flight Training Centre, Premier Airlines Limited, Ubuntu Air Limited, Asante Aviation Limited, Mungufeni Aviation Uganda Limited, Arasus Aviation Limited, and Air Serv Limited.
Several established operators, including Kampala Executive Aviation, Transafrik Uganda Limited, Grand Air Services Limited, Eagle Air Limited, and AIM Air, are also seeking renewals and operational expansions as they position themselves for future growth.Opening the session, UCAA Acting Director General Olive Birungi Lumonya emphasized that the licensing process remains a vital component of the authority’s mandate to regulate air transport while ensuring transparency and stakeholder participation. She noted that the aviation sector continues to demonstrate resilience and steady growth, supported by increasing traffic volumes and improving operational conditions across the industry.
According to UCAA data, Entebbe International Airport handled 189,130 international passengers in April 2026 alone, reflecting strong travel demand with arrivals and departures remaining nearly balanced. Cargo operations also recorded notable growth, reaching 4,823 metric tonnes during the same period. The recovery and gradual reopening of Middle Eastern airspace following earlier disruptions provided a significant boost to traffic and operational efficiency.The government’s ambitious infrastructure agenda is also accelerating transformation across the sector. Expansion and modernization works at Entebbe International Airport continue as authorities seek to increase capacity, improve passenger experience, and strengthen Uganda’s position as a regional aviation hub.
At the same time, upgrades are underway at six strategic regional airports—Kidepo, Arua, Gulu, Kasese, Kisoro, and Pakuba—to stimulate tourism, trade, and economic activity throughout the country.One of the most significant developments is the construction of Kidepo International Airport in Karenga District, a project valued at over USD 72 million and funded by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the United Arab Emirates. Launched by President Yoweri Museveni on June 5, 2026, the airport will feature a modern passenger terminal, extensive cargo handling facilities, and a 3.6-kilometre runway capable of accommodating large aircraft. The project is expected to unlock major tourism and investment opportunities in the Karamoja sub-region while enhancing Uganda’s international connectivity.
UCAA Board Chairperson Justice Dr. Steven B.K. Kavuma noted that Uganda currently has 25 licensed air operators and air service agreements with 64 countries, creating a strong foundation for future growth. With 20 international airlines already serving Entebbe and connecting Uganda to destinations across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, industry leaders believe the country is steadily emerging as one of East Africa’s most promising aviation markets. The record interest witnessed during the licensing meeting signals a sector on the rise, fueled by infrastructure investment, expanding global links, and growing confidence from aviation stakeholders.
