Uganda Airlines has taken a major step in strengthening its regional network after signing a partnership agreement with South Africa’s Airlink enabling travellers to connect seamlessly across Southern Africa using a single ticket.
The new interline arrangement links Uganda Airlines’ Entebbe hub with Airlink’s extensive Southern Africa network through Johannesburg, giving passengers access to more than 45 onward destinations including Cape Town, Durban, Windhoek, Gaborone, Maseru and Victoria Falls.
Under the partnership, travellers will be able to check in once, enjoy through ticketing and have their baggage transferred automatically to their destination a significant convenience boost for business and leisure passengers who previously had to manage separate bookings.
Uganda Airlines Chief Commercial Officer Adedayo Olawuyi said the partnership opens new horizons for East African travellers, noting that simplified movement across the continent is essential for boosting trade, tourism and investment. He added that the collaboration is part of the national carrier’s wider strategy to expand its African footprint through alliances that offer value and flexibility to passengers.
Airlink’s Chief Commercial Officer Katherine Whelan welcomed the agreement, describing Uganda as a key gateway in East Africa and noting that the enhanced connectivity will benefit both airlines’ customers through expanded route options and smoother travel.
Aviation analysts say the deal positions Uganda Airlines more competitively within Africa’s fast-growing regional aviation market. By plugging into Airlink’s established Southern Africa presence, Uganda gains easier access to high traffic tourism destinations and economic hubs without the immediate need to launch its own direct flights.
The partnership also reflects a growing trend across African aviation, where airlines are increasingly using interline and codeshare agreements to extend their reach, reduce operational costs and strengthen intra-continental travel networks.
With this new collaboration, Uganda Airlines is expected to attract more travellers seeking efficient connections between East and Southern Africa reinforcing Entebbe’s role as an emerging regional aviation link.