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Entebbe hits record traffic numbers in June 2025

Peter 18th Jul, 2025 Logistics Pedson Mumbere
Entebbe hits record traffic numbers in June 2025

Entebbe Airport recorded 106,583 arrivals and 106,634 departures an average of 7,107 passengers per day, in June 2025.


Entebbe International Airport recorded its second-highest monthly traffic on record in June 2025, handling 213,217 international passengers, according to data released by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA).

This figure included 106,583 arrivals and 106,634 departures an average of 7,107 passengers per day, just shy of the all-time daily record of 7,171 passengers set in December 2024.

The UCAA attributed the surge to several contributing factors, including the return of Muslim pilgrims from Mecca, an increase in international flight connectivity, growing tourism activity, and a line-up of high-profile regional conferences.

  • “Continued global promotion of Uganda as a prime tourism destination, particularly for its wildlife, adventure, and cultural heritage, translated into a steady flow of inbound visitors,” UCAA noted.

A rise in airport traffic figures may signal broader growth in several economic sectors, including tourism, aviation, agriculture, and logistics. Entebbe’s performance is particularly significant as Uganda positions itself as a regional transport and trade hub.

Tourism, one of the country’s top foreign exchange earners, is getting a much-needed boost. According to the Ministry of Tourism, the sector contributed over UGX 5.9 trillion to GDP in 2023 and employed more than 600,000 Ugandans directly and indirectly.

  • With Uganda’s wildlife, national parks, and cultural tourism gaining international attention, rising arrivals translate into higher occupancy rates at hotels, increased local spending, and more jobs across the hospitality value chain.
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Outbound travel also rose sharply, driven by business and leisure travel among Ugandans. Uganda Airlines played a major role, expanding its international footprint with direct flights to destinations such as India, Nigeria, and London in the United Kingdom.

“Business travel has rebounded, with Entebbe now serving as a key gateway for East and Central African trade,” said UCAA, highlighting that streamlined immigration services and improved airport facilities have made the airport more attractive to investors, traders, and diplomatic delegations.

June also saw traffic increases tied to major events such as the African Nations Championship (CHAN), AFCON qualifiers, and the African Judges Forum. These events brought in athletes, delegates, support staff, and media teams—injecting foreign exchange directly into the local economy through accommodation, transport, and services.

Projections from the Uganda Tourism Board indicate that hosting such events could generate between UGX50–UGX80 billion per major conference in direct and indirect spending.

  • Entebbe Airport also reported robust cargo activity, handling 6,293 metric tons of cargo in June. Of this, exports accounted for 4,332 tons, while imports stood at 1,961 tons. Key export items included fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, fish maws, and gold, which command strong demand in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
  • According to Bank of Uganda statistics, agricultural exports alone brought in over UGX 7.8 trillion in 2024. Enhanced cold-chain logistics and streamlined customs procedures at Entebbe have reduced post-harvest losses and ensured that perishable goods meet international quality standards.

On the import side, increased direct cargo capacity by Uganda Airlines has improved delivery timelines and reduced freight costs for essential goods like electronics, machinery, and industrial inputs benefiting local manufacturers and retailers.

The month-on-month rise from May’s 198,052 passengers to 213,217 in June—an increase of over 15,00 - signals a positive trend heading into the second half of the year. Upcoming events such as regional investment forums, international sports tournaments, and global expos are expected to sustain the growth momentum.

“With the second half of the year ahead and more international summits and sports events on the horizon, the outlook for continued growth remains strong,” said UCAA spokesperson Vianney Luggya.

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