Tunisair Express

Uganda Airlines is the flagship carrier of Uganda, having undergone a massive revival. After a long hiatus, the company was relaunched in 2019, becoming a symbol of renewal and ambition for East African aviation. The airline strives to provide passengers with comfortable journeys, combining modern safety standards with traditional African hospitality, positioning itself as a reliable bridge between regions.

The carrier prides itself on its young and technologically advanced fleet, which allows for highly efficient flight operations. Special attention is paid to the quality of on-board service: from comfortable seats to friendly staff ready to make the flight pleasant for every guest. The company's mission is not just to transport people, but to facilitate the development of tourism and business connections.

Features and Route Network

A key advantage of the airline is the use of the newest aircraft, such as the Airbus A330-800neo and CRJ900, ensuring a quiet and smooth flight. Passengers note the spacious cabins and well-thought-out entertainment system. Flight safety is an unconditional priority, supported by strict international standards for crew training and technical maintenance.

According to current flight statistics, the route map has its unique features. The list of popular destinations includes flights connecting Tunis with cities in Southern Europe. Travelers can take advantage of flights to picturesque Italian cities such as Palermo, Catania, and Naples. Flights are also operated to the capital of Malta — the city of Valletta, opening up additional opportunities for planning complex itineraries in the Mediterranean region.

To resolve issues related to ticket booking, schedule clarifications, or baggage allowance rules, passengers can utilize the airline's support service. Uganda Airlines strives to stay connected with its clients, providing up-to-date information through official communication channels.

All essential information, including online check-in and booking management, is available on the carrier's official resource. Passengers are advised to use verified communication sources to ensure the security of personal data.

Contact Details

• Official Website: ugandairlines.com
• Customer Support (Call Center): +256 200 406 400 (International)
• Email for General Inquiries: info@ugandairlines.com
• Email for Reservations: reservations@ugandairlines.com
• Mobile App: "Uganda Airlines Mobile App" (available on App Store and Google Play)

Social Media

The airline actively maintains pages on social networks, where it publishes news about promotions and schedule changes:

• Facebook
• X (Twitter)
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Offices and Representatives

The company's head office is located in Uganda. If you are abroad, it is recommended to use the hotline or email for prompt communication.

• Headquarters: Entebbe International Airport, Entebbe, Uganda.
• Kampala Office: Victoria Towers, Kampala Road.

Please note that contact details and office operating hours may change. We recommend verifying information on the official website before your trip or call.

Preparation for a journey with Uganda Airlines begins with smart packing. To ensure your trip goes smoothly and without unnecessary hassle at the airport, it is important to familiarize yourself with the baggage rules in advance. The airline offers quite generous conditions, striving to ensure maximum comfort for its passengers on flights across East Africa and international destinations.

Hand Luggage Allowance

Every passenger is entitled to take a certain amount of items necessary during the flight into the cabin. Uganda Airlines' hand luggage policy is designed to ensure convenience and safety on board.

• Economy Class: Passengers are typically allowed to carry one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 7 kg.
• Business Class: The allowance may be increased, allowing for more personal items, though it is recommended to check the exact parameters on your ticket.
• Personal Items: In addition to the main bag, you may take a small handbag, a briefcase with a laptop, a camera, or a bag with Duty Free items into the cabin. These items must easily fit under the seat in front of you.

It is important to remember that hand luggage dimensions must comply with standards (usually 55x35x25 cm) to fit in the overhead bin. If your hand luggage exceeds limits, you may be asked to check it into the cargo hold, which may incur additional costs.

Checked Baggage

One of the advantages of flying with Uganda Airlines is the generous policy regarding checked baggage. The airline often uses the "Piece Concept," which is particularly convenient for those planning long trips or carrying gifts.

• Economy Class: The standard allowance often includes 2 pieces of baggage weighing up to 23 kg each. This is an excellent opportunity for tourists not to limit their wardrobe choices.
• Business Class: Premium class passengers can count on an increased allowance — usually 2 or 3 pieces, with the permissible weight of each suitcase reaching up to 30-32 kg.
• Infants: For passengers traveling with small children (infants), a separate baggage allowance (up to 10 kg) and free carriage of a collapsible stroller are generally provided.

Excess Baggage and Special Rates

If your items exceed the established limits in weight or quantity, you will need to pay an excess baggage fee. Rates depend on the route and the type of excess (overweight or extra piece). Experienced travelers recommend paying for additional baggage in advance via the official website or call center, as payment at the airport before departure is usually significantly more expensive.

Special Items: Sports and Music

Uganda Airlines understands the needs of active travelers and musicians. The transport of special equipment is regulated by separate rules:

• Sports Equipment: Golf bags, bicycles, or diving gear can be transported, but this often requires prior approval and additional payment if the equipment does not fit within the standard baggage allowance.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin instead of hand luggage. For large instruments (e.g., a cello), you may need to purchase a separate seat in the cabin or check them into luggage in a special hard case.

Restrictions and Prohibited Items

For safety purposes, strict rules exist regarding what can and cannot be transported. It is strictly forbidden to check in or take into the cabin explosives, flammable liquids, and toxic materials.

Pay special attention to the following items:

• Lithium Batteries and Power Banks: These can be transported only in hand luggage. Checking them into registered baggage is strictly prohibited due to fire risk.
• E-cigarettes: Are also transported exclusively in hand luggage.
• Liquids in Cabin: In hand luggage, liquids, gels, and aerosols are allowed only in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent resealable bag.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To avoid stress at the check-in counter, weigh your suitcases at home. Use bright tags or ribbons to easily identify your luggage on the carousel. Always keep valuables, documents, money, and vital medicines in your hand luggage — in case of a delay with your main luggage, you will have all the essentials with you.

Rules for Transporting Animals

Uganda Airlines understands the desire of passengers not to part with their four-legged friends during travels. The airline has developed clear rules compliant with international safety standards to ensure a comfortable flight for both pets and other passengers. The main condition for a successful trip is booking the service in advance and preparing all necessary documents.

Transport Options

Depending on the weight, size, and species of the animal, the carrier offers three methods of transport. The choice of the appropriate option depends on the dimensions of the carrier along with the pet.

In the Cabin (PETC)

This option is ideal for cats and small dogs that can comfortably fit at the owner's feet.

• Carrier Dimensions: The container or soft bag must correspond to dimensions allowing it to be placed under the seat in front (approximately 55×37×25 cm, but it is recommended to verify when booking).
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the carrier usually must not exceed 8 kg.
• Permitted Animals: Only domestic cats and dogs are allowed.
• Restrictions: The animal must remain inside the carrier throughout the entire flight.
• Limit: The number of animals in the cabin is limited, so booking a spot should be done as early as possible.

In the Baggage Hold (AVIH)

If your pet exceeds the limits for cabin transport, it will travel in a special heated section of the baggage hold.

• Container Requirements: The cage must be rigid (plastic/metal), IATA certified, with a secure lock and ventilation.
• Animal Comfort: The container must be spacious enough for the animal to stand up fully, turn around, and lie down.
• Weight Restrictions: The maximum weight of the container with the animal is usually limited to 50–75 kg (depending on the aircraft type); above this weight, processing through cargo is required.
• Conditions: The baggage hold is air-conditioned and pressurized, ensuring safe conditions.

As Cargo

This method is used for transporting very large dogs, exotic animals, or when flying without the owner's accompaniment.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds baggage limits or if the destination country requires animals to enter only through the cargo terminal (e.g., the UK).
• Special Requirements: Processing takes place through the airport cargo terminal, and an air waybill is required.
• Procedure: Booking is handled through the Uganda Airlines Cargo department.

Necessary Documents

To check in for the flight, you will need a complete set of documents. The absence of any paper may be grounds for refusal of carriage.

• Veterinary Passport: International standard with owner details and description of the animal.
• Health Certificate: Issued by an official veterinarian (usually valid for 10-14 days before departure).
• Vaccination: Valid rabies vaccination (administered not less than 30 days and not more than a year before departure) and other complex vaccinations.
• International Certificates: Veterinary certificates required by the country of departure, transit, and destination.

Service Costs

Animal transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid separately. Rates may change, but the general structure is as follows:

• In Cabin: A fixed fee per flight segment is charged (e.g., from 50 to 100 USD depending on the destination).
• In Baggage Hold: The cost is often calculated by weight (like excess baggage) or via a fixed rate per piece system (Piece Concept).
• Transfer Flights: If the flight involves a layover, payment may be charged for each flight segment separately.

Tips for Flight Preparation

To reduce stress levels for your pet, follow these simple recommendations:

• Acclimatization to the Cage: Allow the animal to get used to the carrier several weeks before departure by leaving it open at home.
• Feeding: Do not feed the pet a heavy meal less than 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness, but offer a little water.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent pad on the bottom of the container. Toys or an item with the owner's scent will help the animal calm down.
• Physical Activity: Walk the dog well before heading to the airport.

Restrictions

The airline reserves the right to refuse transport in certain cases:

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic dogs and cats (with snub noses, e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) may not be permitted for transport in the baggage hold due to the risk of respiratory problems.
• Age: Animals younger than 3–4 months are not accepted for transport (due to the lack of rabies vaccination).
• Aggressive Behavior: Animals exhibiting aggression are not permitted to fly.
• Pregnancy: Pregnant females may not be admitted to the flight without special permission from a veterinarian.
• Exceptions: Service dogs and guide dogs are usually transported in the cabin free of charge provided they have the appropriate certificates and a muzzle.

Important: Rules for importing animals into different countries can vary significantly. We strongly recommend contacting the Uganda Airlines call center or the consulate of the destination country before purchasing a ticket to clarify current requirements.

Crane Flyer Loyalty Program

For its frequent flyers, Uganda Airlines has developed a loyalty program called Crane Flyer. This is an excellent opportunity to turn regular flights into profitable investments for future travels. By becoming a program member, tourists can accumulate bonus miles and exchange them for a wide range of privileges, making their trips even more comfortable.

How to Earn Miles

The bonus accrual system is transparent and depends on the traveler's activity. The main way to top up the account remains flying with the airline. The number of miles awarded is generally calculated based on the flight distance and booking class — business class travel earns more bonuses than economy class fares. Additionally, the program provides for the possibility of earning miles when using the services of partner companies, the list of which may include hotels, car rental services, and other travel services.

Ways to Use Bonuses

The most pleasant part of participating in Crane Flyer is using accumulated points. The program offers flexible redemption options allowing for significant savings on travel:

• Award Tickets: Exchange miles for free flights (the passenger pays only airport taxes and fees) across the carrier's entire route network.
• Class Upgrade: The opportunity to use miles for an upgrade from Economy to Business Class on already purchased tickets to enjoy enhanced comfort during the flight.
• Extra Baggage: Payment for excess baggage with accumulated bonuses, which is particularly convenient for those who love returning from trips with gifts and souvenirs.

How to Join

Anyone can join the Crane Flyer program, and it is completely free. To do this, simply fill out the registration form in the special section on the official Uganda Airlines website or register via the mobile app. After this, the passenger receives a personal membership number, which must be provided with every flight booking for automatic mileage crediting.

Services and Travel Classes

Traveling with Uganda Airlines is an opportunity to appreciate renowned African hospitality at an altitude of tens of thousands of meters. The airline takes pride in its modern fleet, the backbone of which consists of Airbus A330-800neo liners for long-haul flights and Bombardier CRJ900 for regional flights. Regardless of the route duration, the carrier strives to ensure a high level of comfort and safety for passengers.

Travel Classes

The airline offers a flexible fare system divided into several classes to satisfy the needs of both budget tourists and discerning business travelers.

• Economy Class: Economy class cabins are designed with a focus on comfort. The A330-800neo aircraft feature seats with adjustable headrests and increased legroom, which is particularly important during long flights. The cabin layout ensures enough space for every passenger. On regional CRJ900 flights, thanks to the "Atmosphere" cabin design, passengers also do not feel cramped, enjoying leather seats and large windows.
• Premium Economy (on A330): An intermediate class offering more privacy, extended space between seats, and enhanced service compared to standard economy.
• Business Class: The pride of the airline. On board the Airbus A330, passengers are treated to seats that convert into a full lie-flat bed, with direct aisle access for everyone (1-2-1 configuration). This is the ideal choice for overnight flights, for example, when departing from the hub in Tunis or other long routes. On regional jets, business class features wider seats in a 2-1 or 2-2 configuration and priority service.

Food and Beverages

One of the highlights of the service is the onboard menu, often called "The Taste of Uganda." The airline strives to introduce guests to local culinary traditions even before landing.

• Hot Meals: Served on most flights, including regional ones. The menu typically includes a choice of meat or vegetarian dishes prepared from fresh ingredients.
• Beverages: Passengers in all classes are offered a wide selection of refreshing beverages, juices, tea, and coffee. A premium selection of beverages is also available depending on the route and time of day.
• Special Meals: Upon prior request (usually 24–48 hours before departure), you can order dietary, children's, or religious meals (Halal options available).

In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity

To make the flight pass unnoticed, Uganda Airlines has equipped its long-haul liners with modern multimedia systems.

• IFE (In-Flight Entertainment): A330 passengers can enjoy personal touch screens with a rich collection of movies, music, and games. The entertainment system is available in multiple languages.
• Connectivity: Modern aircraft feature capabilities for Wi-Fi connection (service may be chargeable), allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones or handle work matters right in the sky. Seats are also equipped with USB ports and power outlets for charging gadgets.

Comfort and Additional Amenities

The atmosphere in the cabin is created thanks to a modern LED lighting system that changes depending on the flight phase, helping to reduce jet lag. On long flights, passengers are provided with soft blankets and pillows, and business class guests receive amenity kits with toiletries and necessary small items.

Services for Special Categories of Passengers

The airline pays special attention to caring for those who require additional assistance:

• Travel with Children: Little travelers are welcome on board. The crew is ready to assist with seating and warming up baby food.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Escort services and wheelchairs are provided (must be requested when booking). Flight attendants are trained to provide necessary assistance during the flight.
• Unaccompanied Minors: For children traveling without parents, an escort service by airline staff is provided from the check-in counter to the handover to the meeting person at the arrival airport.

The Uganda Airlines route network is structured to ensure convenient connections and comfortable flights for passengers. A key transit node (hub) for the airline is the city of Tunis, through which major routes pass, connecting the African continent with popular European destinations.

Booking and Flight Tips

A journey with Uganda Airlines promises to be a pleasant experience, especially if you prepare for it in advance. We have gathered useful recommendations for you that will help save your budget, choose the best seats, and pass through airport formalities without unnecessary stress.

Best Time to Book and Finding Low Fares

To get the most favorable rates, it is recommended to plan your trip well in advance. The optimal time to buy tickets for international flights is 3–4 months before the intended departure date. For regional flights within Africa, good prices can often be found 3–5 weeks before departure.

• Watch for Promotions: The airline regularly holds sales timed for holidays or the launch of new destinations. Subscribe to the newsletter on the official website or follow updates on the carrier's social media to not miss special "Early Bird" offers.
• Flexible Dates: Using the "low fare calendar" function when searching for tickets often allows you to save money by shifting the departure date by just one or two days.
• Seasonality: Take tourism seasons into account. Flights during popular periods (Christmas holidays, summer vacations) are always more expensive. Off-peak season is a great chance to buy a ticket at a reduced price.

Online Check-in and Mobile App

Save time at the airport by using the airline's digital services. The Uganda Airlines mobile app (available for iOS and Android) becomes an indispensable assistant on the road.

• Online Check-in: Usually opens 24 hours prior and closes a few hours before departure. This allows you to select a seat in the cabin, enter passport details, and receive a boarding pass directly on your smartphone.
• App Benefits: Through the app, it is convenient not only to check in but also to track flight status in real-time, check mileage balance in the loyalty program, and manage your booking (e.g., order special meals).
• At the Airport: If you have checked in online and are flying with hand luggage only, you can proceed immediately to security screening, bypassing queues at check-in counters. If you have luggage, it can be quickly dropped off at the "Drop-off" counter.

Tips for Seat Selection

Comfort in flight largely depends on where you sit. The airline's fleet consists of modern liners, but cabin configurations differ.

• On Long-Haul Flights (Airbus A330): If you appreciate window views, choose seats A or K. For those who prefer quick aisle access, seats C, D, F, or H are suitable. Couples traveling together should look at the side blocks of seats (two in a row).
• On Regional Flights (CRJ900): The aircraft has a 2-2 layout. This means there are no uncomfortable middle seats here — you sit either by the window or by the aisle.
• Extra Space: For a small additional fee or with high status in the loyalty program, you can select seats with increased legroom (at emergency exits or in the front rows of economy class). It is best to do this at the ticket purchase stage or immediately after online check-in opens.

Travel Insurance

Although Uganda Airlines ensures high safety standards, experienced tourists know that insurance is a mandatory attribute of a peaceful trip. When planning a flight, especially with connections through the hub in the city of Tunis, it is recommended to take out a comprehensive insurance policy.

Good insurance should cover not only medical expenses but also risks associated with flight cancellation, loss, or delay of baggage. This is a small investment that will protect you from unforeseen expenses in a foreign country.

History and Development of the Airline

The history of Uganda Airlines is an inspiring story of the revival of a national symbol. The airline was originally founded in May 1976 by the government of Uganda following the cessation of operations of the East African Airways conglomerate. In its early years, starting flights in 1977, the carrier played a key role in connecting the country with the world, using a fleet consisting of classic Boeing 707 liners. However, despite an ambitious start, the company faced economic difficulties and was forced to suspend its operations in 2001.

The period of silence lasted almost 18 years until the government of Uganda made a strategic decision to restore the national carrier to stimulate tourism and the economy. The revival of the brand became a national project. In 2018, orders were placed for new aircraft, and already in August 2019, the renewed Uganda Airlines made its first commercial flight, marking the beginning of a new era in East African aviation.

Fleet Evolution and Innovation

One of the most significant stages in the company's new history was the choice of an ultra-modern fleet. Moving away from old models, the airline bet on technology and efficiency. For regional routes, comfortable Bombardier CRJ900s with the unique "Atmosphere" cabin were chosen, allowing passengers to be offered a business-class level of comfort even on short flights.

A real breakthrough was the acquisition of wide-body Airbus A330-800neo liners. Uganda Airlines became one of the first operators of this rare and highly efficient model in the world. These aircraft allowed the company to launch long-haul flights and offer a world-class product, including fully lie-flat seats in business class and a modern entertainment system.

Expansion of Route Network

Since the relaunch, the route development strategy has been aimed at phased expansion. Initially, the airline restored connections with immediate neighbors — Kenya, Tanzania, and South Sudan, establishing itself as a reliable regional carrier. Following this came the launch of ambitious international destinations linking Entebbe with the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.

Today, the company continues to develop actively, integrating into the global air transport network. An important aspect of modern strategy is the development of transit nodes. For example, cooperation and flights through hubs such as Tunis allow for convenient connections for travelers heading to North Africa and Europe, making the world closer for its passengers.