Entebbe International Airport (EIA) has made remarkable strides in recent years, solidifying its position as a critical gateway to Uganda and a key player in Africa's aviation industry. Its impressive growth in passenger traffic, cargo handling, and airspace activity reflects Uganda’s growing importance on the global stage and its commitment to enhancing socio-economic development.
Its passenger traffic growth is a Testament to Uganda’s Vibrancy because the number of international passengers passing through EIA has shown steady growth, underscoring the airport's importance as a regional hub. Between January and November 2024, Entebbe International Airport recorded 2,020,787 international passengers, marking a 17.8% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This remarkable growth is driven by several factors that include Increased Tourism that is Uganda’s stunning natural attractions, ie. the source of the Nile, mountain gorillas, and the Rwenzori Mountains, falls, cultural diversity, food, hospitality, continue to draw international tourists.
Secondly, Hosting significant international events such as the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77+ China Summit boosted passenger numbers, a stable economic environment has facilitated growth in international trade and investments
Compared to other African countries, Entebbe International Airport's passenger traffic growth positions it among the top-performing airports on the continent, competing favorably with regional hubs like Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Kenya and Addis Ababa Bole International Airport in Ethiopia.
Cargo operations at Entebbe International Airport have also seen significant improvement. Between January and November 2024, the airport handled 61,393 metric tonnes of cargo, representing a substantial increase from 53,803 metric tonnes during the same period in 2023. This growth is primarily attributed to the expansion of Uganda’s export sector, particularly specialty products like coffee, fish, and horticultural goods, which have found ready markets in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
November 2024 alone recorded 5,730 metric tonnes of cargo, with exports comprising a significant portion. The improved cargo infrastructure at EIA has further enhanced Uganda’s competitiveness in international trade, supporting the country’s economic diversification and industrialization agenda.
The rise in aircraft movements and overflights is another indicator of Entebbe International Airport’s growth. Between January and November 2024, the airport recorded 29,751 aircraft movements, a 5.6% increase from 2023. Overflights increased by 8.2%, reflecting Uganda’s strategic location at the heart of Africa, making it an attractive option for air operators.
The introduction of new routes by Uganda Airlines, including Abuja, Lagos, and Mumbai, has significantly contributed to this growth. Additionally, the entry of new air operators into Uganda's airspace demonstrates growing confidence in the country’s aviation potential.
The growth of Entebbe International Airport has had profound socio-economic impacts on Uganda by
boosting Tourism and Hospitality noting the fact that the increased passenger traffic has directly benefited Uganda's tourism and hospitality sectors, creating jobs and stimulating local economies,
The growth in cargo operations has provided a lifeline to exporters, particularly those in agriculture and manufacturing, enabling them to access global markets more efficiently, the airport's expansion and increased activity have created thousands of jobs, both directly at the airport and indirectly in related sectors, the airport’s growth has catalyzed improvements in infrastructure, including road networks, accommodations, and communication facilities in the Entebbe area.
Entebbe International Airport’s growth reflects Uganda's ambition to become a leading aviation hub in Africa. With continued investments in infrastructure, including the ongoing expansion of the passenger terminal, and the strategic positioning of Uganda Airlines, the country is poised to play a more significant role in regional and global air travel.
While airports like Johannesburg’s OR Tambo and Addis Ababa Bole International lead the continent in passenger numbers and cargo operations, Entebbe’s progressive growth has placed it among the top emerging airports. Its focus on niche markets like specialty exports and strategic international events ensures that it remains competitive and relevant in the evolving aviation landscape.
Entebbe International Airport's growth is a testament to Uganda’s resilience and ambition. It is not just an airport but a symbol of the country's socio-economic transformation. As it continues to expand its capacity and reach, EIA is set to elevate Uganda’s status on the global stage, contributing significantly to the country’s prosperity and integration into the global economy.
By Dickson Namisi
Digital Communication Specialist
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