Turkish Airlines has announced plans to launch direct, non-stop flights from Istanbul to Entebbe International Airport starting July 2025, significantly boosting Uganda’s air connectivity with Europe.
The development was shared by Amos Wekesa, CEO of Great Lakes Safaris, through a post on his X account (formerly Twitter). This route will mark Uganda’s second direct flight connection with Europe, following the upcoming Uganda Airlines service to London, set to begin on May 18.
Wekesa had recently traveled to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania at the invitation of Turkish Airlines’ regional office. He was asked to present Uganda to tour operators in those countries, highlighting the country’s tourism offerings. Reflecting on the trip, Wekesa emphasized the growing need to promote Uganda more actively in less-traditional European markets.
“The ticket wasn’t the excitement, but the fact that they want someone to push Uganda,” he said, noting that Turkish Airlines selected only one representative each from Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda for the campaign.
Turkish Airlines currently operates flights to over 60 destinations across Africa, making it second only to Ethiopian Airlines in terms of African connectivity.
Wekesa also pointed out that many European countries still lack awareness about Uganda as a travel destination. He stressed that without deliberate marketing efforts and strategic partnerships, Uganda risks missing out on significant tourism opportunities in these emerging markets.
The new direct Istanbul-Entebbe route is expected to enhance Uganda’s visibility and accessibility for travelers from Eastern Europe and beyond, strengthening the country’s position as an attractive tourism destination.
