Uganda Airlines is celebrating a prestigious gold award from Germany for their eco-friendly ‘Premium Economy Kits.’ These kits, provided to travellers on the national carrier, have earned the airline international recognition.
The award was presented by Travel Plus magazine in Hamburg, Germany. Jenifer Bamuturaki, the airline’s Chief Executive Officer, expressed her excitement about the accolade.
“This award is a true testament to product excellence and sustainable innovation,” she said.
Shakila Rahim Lamar, Uganda Airlines’ Head of Public Relations and Corporate Affairs, also shared her pride in winning the Travel Plus Readers Award 2024.
“This honour highlights the airline’s commitment to sustainability and excellence,” Lamar noted.
According to Lamar, the awarded travel kit features a bag made from natural fabrics, inspired by Uganda’s traditional textures and adorned with an embroidered golden-crowned crane.
Inside the kit, travellers will find eco-friendly items such as a bamboo toothbrush, earplugs in a craft flow pack, natural moisturizing face and hand creams from Bueno, a sleep mask, and cosy socks.
“The kits reflect Uganda Airlines’ philosophy of environmental responsibility, aiming to inspire travellers to be more conscious of their ecological impact,” Lamar explained. “This recognition underscores the airline’s dedication to reducing its environmental footprint while providing a comfortable and culturally rich travel experience.”
In the competition, Uganda Airlines competed against notable carriers like KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Finnair, and United Airlines in the premium economy category. Lamar added that even their economy class kits are eco-friendly and ‘in touch with nature,’ showcasing African heritage.
Expanding Horizons: New Routes and Fleet Enhancements
Uganda Airlines currently operates 13 routes, with recent additions to Lagos, Nigeria, and Mumbai, India. Lamar announced plans to open more routes in Abuja, Nigeria; Harare, Zimbabwe; Lusaka, Zambia; and London, UK.
In May, Uganda Airlines signed a short-term lease agreement (wet-lease) with South African-based Global Airlines for a new Airbus A320. This mid-range aircraft, with 160 seats, including 12 business class and 138 economy seats, will enhance the airline’s operational efficiency.
Bamuturaki mentioned that the aircraft, which comes with its pilots and cabin crew, will support Uganda Airlines in maintaining scheduled integrity during fleet maintenance.
With these achievements and expansions, Uganda Airlines is poised for continued growth and recognition in the aviation industry.
