Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe has welcomed the launch of Uganda Airlines’ inaugural flight to Ghana, describing the development as a significant boost to the country’s aviation sector and reaffirming the government’s commitment to investing in aviation infrastructure. The Ugandan national carrier commenced operations at Accra International Airport on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, with flights operating four times a week and connecting Entebbe, Lagos and Accra.
The new service expands Uganda Airlines’ African network, adding Accra to its destinations and providing travellers with an additional option for journeys between Ghana and Uganda. It is also expected to strengthen trade, tourism and business relations between West and East Africa. Speaking at the inaugural flight ceremony, Mr Nikpe said the government would continue to invest in aviation infrastructure to position Ghana as a preferred destination for international travel.
The Managing Director of Ghana Airports Company Limited, Mrs Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, said Uganda Airlines’ entry into the Ghanaian market reflects the country’s growing attractiveness to aviation investors.
“The arrival of Uganda Airlines in Ghana represents a significant milestone in the growing relationship between the two countries. Beyond expanding travel options for passengers, this new service is expected to enhance connectivity, stimulate tourism and culture, facilitate trade and strengthen economic cooperation between Ghana and Uganda,” she said.
The Chief Executive of Uganda Airlines, Mr Girma Wake, said the new service would improve air connectivity between West and East Africa, making travel between the two regions more accessible. The flights will operate through Lagos, Nigeria, before arriving in Accra, rather than offering a direct, non-stop connection. The service will be operated using a Boeing 737-800 wet-leased from Ethiopian Airlines.
Under a wet-lease arrangement, an airline obtains an aircraft along with its crew, maintenance and insurance from another carrier. This enables airlines to expand their operations without having to increase their own fleet.
For passengers travelling between Ghana and Uganda, the new route offers an additional option alongside existing connections through hubs such as Nairobi and Addis Ababa. Its entry into a market already served by established airlines could also increase competition and potentially provide travellers with more choices in terms of fares and connections.
Limited air connectivity remains a major challenge to Africa’s economic integration, with passengers often relying on indirect routes and transit stops when travelling between countries on the continent. For Uganda Airlines, the Accra service forms part of its broader strategy to develop a commercially sustainable route network while strengthening Entebbe’s role as a hub connecting African markets with international destinations.
The new service is also expected to support business travel and create opportunities for stronger commercial partnerships among Ghana, Uganda and other markets along the route.
