By Samuel Ssenono
Entebbe International Airport recorded a significant rise in passenger traffic and cargo volumes in January 2025, continuing an upward trend in Uganda’s aviation sector. According to the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), the airport handled 216,740 international passengers, averaging 6,991 travelers per day. This marked an increase from 194,563 passengers in January 2024.
The growth in passenger numbers is attributed to several key factors, including increased tourism activity, Uganda’s hosting of international conferences such as the African Union Extraordinary #CAADPKampala25, which attracted 977 delegates, and the expansion of Uganda Airlines’ operations on new routes. Additionally, new air operators Kush Air and Premier Airlines began flights to Juba in December 2024, contributing to the traffic surge.
Second-Highest Monthly Traffic on Record
January 2025 ranks as the second busiest month in the airport’s history, following December 2024, which recorded 222,317 arriving and departing passengers. Other high-traffic months include August 2024 (204,575 passengers) and December 2023 (198,961 passengers).
For the full year 2024, Entebbe International Airport handled 2,243,104 international passengers, a 16% increase from 1,932,094 passengers in 2023.
Cargo Operations on the Rise
Cargo volumes also saw a notable rise in January 2025, with the airport handling 5,069 metric tonnes—3,491 metric tonnes of exports and 1,578 metric tonnes of imports. The overall cargo throughput for 2024 stood at 67,731 metric tonnes, a sharp increase from 59,073 metric tonnes in 2023.
Sustained Growth in Uganda’s Aviation Sector
The latest statistics reflect the continued expansion of Uganda’s aviation industry, driven by increased international engagements, new airline operations, and a rise in cargo exports. The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority remains optimistic about further growth as Uganda strengthens its position as a regional air transport hub.
