If you thought Entebbe International Airport was busy before, January 2025 took things to a whole new level.
The airport handled a whopping 216,740 international passengers last month, marking a significant jump from the 194,563 passengers recorded in January 2024.
That’s an average of 6,991 passengers per day—proof that Uganda’s gateway to the world is buzzing like never before.
Breaking Down the Numbers
According to Vianney Mpungu Luggya, Manager of Public Affairs at the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), the breakdown is as follows:
- Arriving Passengers: 105,320
- Departing Passengers: 111,420
This growth isn’t just a fluke. It’s the result of several strategic developments that have put Uganda on the global map.
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What’s Driving the Growth?
Several factors are fueling this upward trend:
1. Tourism Boom: Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife continue to attract visitors from around the world.
2. International Conferences: The country’s role as a host for global events has brought in a steady stream of business travelers.
3. Uganda Airlines’ Expansion: The national carrier’s new routes have made it easier for travelers to access Uganda.
4. New Air Operators: The introduction of Kush Air and Premier Airlines, which began flights to Juba in December 2024, has added more options for travelers.
A Record-Breaking Trend
January 2025 now ranks as the airport’s second busiest month ever, just behind December 2024, which saw a record-breaking 222,317 passengers.
Other standout months include August 2024 (204,575 passengers) and December 2023 (198,961 passengers).
But the growth isn’t limited to passenger traffic. Cargo activity is also on the rise.
In January 2025 alone, the airport handled 5,069 metric tonnes of cargo, including 3,491 metric tonnes of exports and 1,578 metric tonnes of imports.
For the entire year of 2024, cargo volumes reached 67,731 metric tonnes, up from 59,073 metric tonnes in 2023.
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The Bigger Picture
In 2024, Entebbe International Airport welcomed a total of 2,243,104 international passengers—a significant increase from the 1,932,094 passengers in 2023.
This growth underscores Uganda’s growing appeal as a travel and business destination.
What Does This Mean for Uganda?
The surge in passenger and cargo traffic is more than just a statistic—it’s a sign of Uganda’s rising prominence on the global stage.
As the airport continues to expand and modernize, it’s poised to become a key hub for East Africa, driving economic growth and fostering international connections.
Entebbe International Airport is more than just a transit point—it’s a symbol of Uganda’s progress and potential.
With passenger and cargo numbers on the rise, the sky’s the limit for this East African hub.
