The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Director General, Fred Bamwesigye, provided an update on the ambitious infrastructure upgrade at Entebbe International Airport during a Stakeholders’ Engagement Breakfast held yesterday in Kampala.
The enhancements are part of Uganda’s strategy to position the airport as a regional hub for air traffic, tourism, and international trade.
The centerpiece of the project is the construction of a new 20,000-square-meter passenger terminal building, now 82% complete and set for delivery by June 2025.
Once operational, the terminal will expand the airport’s capacity from handling 2 million passengers annually to at least 3.5 million.
The upgrades also include three additional aerobridges, a vital enhancement to improve passenger experience and operational efficiency.
These improvements align with the government’s focus on supporting growing passenger and cargo traffic.
Completed Projects
Among the recently completed upgrades is the Modified Terminal Building, which opened to the public in January 2024.
This facility has already played a key role in accommodating high-profile events, such as the NAM/G77+China Summit and the African Union CAADP Summit.
Additionally, the resurfacing of runways, taxiways, and aprons ensures the airport meets international standards for safety and capacity, accommodating the increasing number of commercial flights and cargo movements.
Once fully operational, the upgraded facilities are expected to solidify Entebbe International Airport’s status as a critical aviation gateway.
“The expansion will not only increase capacity but also significantly enhance the passenger experience and operational efficiency,” Bamwesigye stated.
Economic Implications
With the projected rise in passenger numbers and increased cargo throughput, the upgrades are poised to bolster Uganda’s economy by attracting more airlines and stimulating international trade and tourism.
The CAA is also exploring harmonization of the terminal buildings to ensure seamless operations and has initiated plans to enhance auxiliary infrastructure like parking facilities and fuel hydrant systems.
This massive infrastructure overhaul reflects Uganda’s commitment to advancing its aviation sector to meet the demands of a growing economy and a dynamic global aviation industry.
Bamwesigye concluded, “These investments demonstrate our dedication to making Uganda a preferred destination for air travel in the region.”
As the project nears its completion, stakeholders and industry players anticipate that the upgraded Entebbe International Airport will not only support current demand but also cater to Uganda’s future aviation needs.
