By David Mwanje
Uganda Airlines and Air India have launched an interline partnership, effective August 25, 2024, connecting Africa and India with seamless travel options. This collaboration allows passengers to book a single ticket from Entebbe International Airport to over 25 destinations in India, including Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, as well as global hubs like Bangkok and London Heathrow via Air India’s Mumbai gateway. Likewise, Air India passengers can access Uganda’s vibrant landscapes and extend their journey to African destinations like South Africa, Nigeria, and Tanzania through Uganda Airlines’ network.
Since its 2019 relaunch, Uganda Airlines has soared as Uganda’s national carrier. With a modern fleet of Airbus A330-800neo and CRJ900 aircraft, it has expanded routes across East, West, and Southern Africa, linking cities like Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Lagos. The airline has doubled its passenger numbers yearly, serving over 500,000 travelers in 2024. Its focus on punctuality and affordability earned it recognition at the 2023 African Aviation Awards as a top emerging carrier. Uganda Airlines has also boosted trade, transporting coffee, flowers, and produce, while promoting tourism to Uganda’s gorilla-filled forests and scenic mountains.
This partnership amplifies Uganda Airlines’ global footprint. Travelers from Entebbe can now explore India’s cultural and economic hubs or connect to Asia and Europe with ease. For Air India’s passengers, the deal opens Uganda’s wildlife and business opportunities, with onward connections across Africa. The single-ticket system simplifies travel, fostering cultural and economic ties between the continents.
“This alliance with Air India is a milestone,” said in a statement released. “It connects our passengers to a vast network while bringing Africa closer to the world.” The partnership aligns with Uganda Airlines’ vision to bridge continents, building on its sustainable practices with fuel-efficient aircraft and collaborations with tourism boards to showcase Uganda’s beauty.
Air India benefits by tapping into Africa’s growing aviation market, offering its passengers access to Uganda’s economic hubs and natural wonders. As trade and tourism between India and Africa flourish, this partnership positions both airlines as key players in global connectivity.
Travelers can now embark on seamless journeys, whether for business in Mumbai, a safari in Uganda, or exploration across Africa and India. With Uganda Airlines’ proven growth and Air India’s extensive network, this partnership is set to redefine travel, making it easier to discover new horizons.
