Entebbe International Airport has recorded impressive growth in passenger traffic for January 2025, with a total of 216,740 international passengers—an average of 6,991 passengers per day.
This represents a significant increase from January 2024, which saw 194,563 international passengers.
The latest figures make January 2025 the second highest month for passenger traffic in the airport's history, following a record-high in December 2024.
According to Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the boost in passenger numbers is attributed to a combination of factors.
Key among them are Uganda's growing tourism sector, the successful hosting of international conferences like the African Union Extraordinary CAADP Kampala 25, which attracted nearly 1,000 delegates, and the expansion of Uganda Airlines’ network, including new routes.
Additionally, the introduction of new air operators such as Kush Air and Premier Airlines, which began flights to Juba in December 2024, also contributed to the surge.
“We are excited to see this growth in passenger numbers, which highlights Uganda’s increasing position as a hub for international travel and business," the CAA said.
"The rise in traffic not only reflects the expanding tourism sector but also demonstrates the strong impact of international conferences and our national carrier’s expanded routes."
The growth in passenger traffic is a positive sign for the economy, with more visitors likely to boost Uganda’s tourism, hospitality, and service sectors.
The recent trend aligns with a broader effort to enhance Uganda’s position as a regional aviation and tourism hub.
The CAA also noted that the influx of passengers could help create more job opportunities and provide a boost to local businesses near the airport.
When compared to December 2024, which recorded 222,317 international passengers, January’s figures demonstrate that the airport remains on track to continue its upward trajectory in 2025.
The airport also registered high traffic levels in August 2024, with 204,575 passengers, and in December 2023, with 198,961 international travelers.
In addition to passenger growth, Entebbe International Airport has seen strong cargo performance.
In January 2025, the airport handled a total of 5,069 metric tonnes of cargo, including 3,491 metric tonnes of exports and 1,578 metric tonnes of imports.
This follows a notable rise in cargo traffic throughout 2024, with the airport handling 67,731 metric tonnes of cargo, up from 59,073 metric tonnes in 2023.
These figures not only highlight the airport's strategic role in Uganda's trade and commerce but also underscore the positive impact of increased international connectivity.
The growth in both passengers and cargo reflects the airport's expanding role in facilitating regional and global trade, enhancing Uganda’s integration into the global economy.
The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority has expressed optimism for continued growth throughout 2025, with expectations that passenger and cargo traffic will continue to rise as Uganda’s international presence strengthens.
“With our continued investments in infrastructure and partnerships with global air operators, we are well-positioned to handle even higher volumes of traffic in the coming months," the national aviation industry regulator said.
"The outlook for Entebbe International Airport remains positive, and we expect to see even more opportunities for Uganda on the global stage."
As Uganda moves forward with its economic and tourism initiatives, Entebbe International Airport is set to play a pivotal role in connecting the country to the world, contributing to Uganda’s overall economic growth and development.