A draft report proposing the separation of regulatory and operational functions currently managed by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has been presented to the Minister of Works and Transport.
The proposal follows an internal review by UCAA aimed at aligning Uganda’s aviation framework with international best practices. Currently, the authority performs a dual role as both regulator and service provider a structure the report suggests is no longer ideal for efficiency, accountability, and compliance with global aviation standards.
According to the draft report, the separation would lead to the establishment of an autonomous airports entity by statute, which would take over all airport operations and ownership functions currently under UCAA.
Once implemented, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority would focus exclusively on its core regulatory mandate, including:
Safety and security regulation,Provision of air navigation services,Economic regulation of airport charges,Consumer protection
The review process and subsequent recommendations were developed in close consultation with key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the Office of the Attorney General, and Parliament.
Officials believe the move will strengthen institutional efficiency, enhance transparency, and ensure that Uganda’s aviation sector continues to meet international safety and service standards.