Uganda has unveiled an ambitious aviation expansion programme targeting six key airports across the country in a bold move aimed at transforming regional connectivity, boosting tourism, and accelerating economic growth. The development plan focuses on Kidepo, Arua, Gulu, Kasese, Kisoro, and Pakuba airports, signaling Government’s determination to strengthen the country’s air transport network.
The announcement was made by Olive Birungi Lumonya, the Acting Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), during the 53rd UCAA Board Air Services Licensing Committee Meeting held in Kampala. She noted that the planned upgrades are expected to unlock new investment opportunities, enhance trade, and open up some of Uganda’s most strategic tourism destinations to both local and international travelers.
The aviation infrastructure push comes alongside the ongoing modernization of Entebbe International Airport, which remains the country’s primary gateway. Government says the improvements are designed to create a safer, more efficient, and sustainable aviation system while increasing passenger capacity, improving service delivery, and positioning Uganda as a major regional aviation hub.One of the most significant milestones in the programme is the construction of Kidepo International Airport in Karenga District, officially launched by President Yoweri Museveni on June 5, 2026.
The multi-million-dollar project, funded by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the United Arab Emirates, is expected to dramatically improve access to the northeastern region of Uganda and elevate Kidepo’s tourism potential.Once completed, Kidepo International Airport will feature a 3.6-kilometre runway, a modern passenger terminal, a large cargo handling facility, and other critical aviation infrastructure. Meanwhile, preparations for upgrading Arua, Gulu, and Kasese airports have already been finalized, with Government working to secure financing before construction begins. Kisoro and Pakuba airports remain under the planning and project preparation stages.Uganda’s broader aviation development agenda is also making remarkable progress elsewhere.
Kabalega International Airport is now nearing completion, with works standing at approximately 98 percent. Authorities have also accelerated construction of the airport’s passenger terminal to ensure readiness ahead of Uganda’s hosting of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). In addition, the upgrade of Jinja Airport has been completed, while modernization works at Pakuba Airport are approaching completion.At the same meeting, UCAA disclosed that fifteen companies had applied for Air Service Licences, including ten new applicants and five seeking renewals.
Officials described the growing number of applicants as a strong vote of confidence in Uganda’s aviation industry, which currently supports twenty-five licensed air operators offering passenger, cargo, flight training, aerial work, and private aviation services.The sector’s strong performance is further reflected in rising passenger and cargo numbers. Entebbe International Airport handled more than 189,000 international passengers in April 2026, while cargo throughput exceeded 4,800 metric tonnes. With Uganda maintaining air service agreements with sixty-four countries, twenty international airlines currently operating scheduled flights to Entebbe, and Uganda Airlines steadily expanding its international footprint, the country’s aviation sector appears firmly on course for unprecedented growth and global competitiveness.
