Entebbe Airport Records Rise In Passenger Traffic & Strong Export Performance In March

By Spy Uganda

Entebbe International Airport registered a total of 178,383 international passengers in March 2025, reflecting a steady rebound in air travel and continued interest in Uganda as a destination for business and tourism.

According to the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), the month saw 83,661 arrivals and 94,722 departures, averaging 5,754 passengers per day. The figures show an increase of 6,393 passengers compared to March 2024, which recorded 171,990 travelers.

While March showed an uptick in traffic, overall trends in early 2025 have been mixed. February 2025 saw a decline with 161,095 passengers, down from 175,630 recorded in the same month of 2024. However, January 2025 posted a strong performance, recording 216,740 passengers—the second-highest monthly figure in the airport’s history.

UCAA attributes the March growth to several factors, including Uganda’s hosting of high-profile international conferences, increased tourism marketing, and the addition of new airline operators. Notably, Saudi carrier Flynas launched direct flights between Riyadh and Entebbe in January 2025, while Uganda Airlines continues to expand its footprint on new regional and international routes.

In terms of cargo, the airport handled 5,852 metric tonnes during March, comprising 1,965 tonnes of imports and 3,887 tonnes of exports. Export volumes remained significantly higher, reflecting Uganda’s growing role in international trade and contributing positively to foreign exchange earnings.

Officials noted that the strong export performance underscores the importance of Entebbe International Airport as a vital hub for both passenger and cargo operations in the region.

The Civil Aviation Authority remains optimistic about the months ahead, citing increasing regional connectivity and strategic investments in aviation infrastructure as key drivers for sustained growth in both passenger and cargo traffic.