In a strategic move aimed to position Uganda as a regional aviation hub, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has embarked on the process of reviewing aviation license for various new Air Service companies following the 53rd Board Air Services Licensing Committee Meeting in Kampala.
According to officials the review is aimed at enhanced connectivity, strategic infrastructure investments, and a supportive regulatory framework to boost the industry.
In total UCAA has received 15 applications comprising 10 new applications and five renewals. Among the new applicants seeking licences were Cubic Air SMC Limited, Misk Air Limited, Flight Training Centre, Premier Airlines Limited, Ubuntu Air Limited, Asante Aviation Limited, Mungufeni Aviation Uganda Limited, Arasus Aviation Limited, and Air Serv Limited. Kampala Executive Aviation also applied for a new cargo licence while seeking renewal of its passenger operations licence.
Renewal applications were submitted by Transafrik Uganda Limited, Grand Air Services Limited, Eagle Air Limited, and AIM Air.
UCAA Acting Director General Olive Birungi Lumonya said the strong turnout and growing number of applications reflects increased investor confidence in Uganda’s aviation industry.
“This meeting is an important statutory process through which the Authority engages stakeholders and discharges its mandate of regulating and licensing air transport services in Uganda,” she said.
Lumonya highlighted the sector’s continued recovery and growth, revealing that Entebbe International Airport handled 189,130 international passengers in April 2026, with arrivals and departures almost evenly split. Cargo volumes also remained strong, with total throughput reaching 4,823 metric tonnes during the month.
She further outlined several major infrastructure projects being undertaken by government to strengthen Uganda’s aviation network ssuch as the ongoing expansion and modernization of Entebbe International Airport, the development of six priority regional airports, and the construction of Kidepo International Airport in Karenga District.
Lumonya told the gathering that Phase I of Kabalega International Airport is now 98 percent complete and expected to be finalized by July 31, 2026, while construction of the passenger terminal under Phase II has been accelerated in preparation for Uganda’s hosting of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
During the same meeting UCAA Board Chairperson Hon. Justice Dr. Steven B.K. Kavuma described the annual licensing forum as a critical platform for promoting the orderly development of Uganda’s aviation industry.
“The continued interest by operators in obtaining Air Service Licences is a strong indicator of confidence in Uganda’s aviation sector and its future prospects,” he said.
Kavuma noted that Uganda currently has 25 licensed air operators providing a range of services and has signed Air Services Agreements with 64 countries, strengthening international connectivity and facilitating trade, tourism, and investment.
He applauded the growth of Uganda Airlines, which now serves 15 international destinations to various bilateral air service agreements signed by Uganda government.
He however reaffirmed UCAA commitment to maintaining a transparent, fair, and competitive regulatory environment while supporting the growth of a safe, secure, and sustainable aviation industry.
