The global airline industry is on a strong recovery path, with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasting record revenues of $1.007 trillion in 2025.
This growth persists despite challenges such as supply chain delays from aircraft manufacturers Boeing and Airbus, which IATA CEO Willie Walsh criticized as “quasi-monopolies.” These delays have hindered airlines’ efforts to deploy fuel-efficient jets and expand operations.
However, the industry is still set to achieve a net profit of $36.6 billion by 2025, driven by robust passenger demand following the pandemic’s impact.
Uganda’s Entebbe International Airport mirrors this global recovery, experiencing a steady rise in passenger numbers and enhancing infrastructure to meet growing demand. In October 2024, the airport processed 183,728 international passengers, a 7% increase compared to October 2023.
Efforts by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) include upgrading the passenger terminal to boost annual capacity from 3.6 million to 6 million by 2033.
CAA Director General Fred Bamwesigye emphasized the focus on enhancing safety, security, and infrastructure, positioning Entebbe to compete with regional hubs like Ethiopia’s Bole International Airport, which handles 22 million passengers annually. Cargo operations are also expanding, with 5,825 metric tonnes processed in October 2024.
Despite the optimistic outlook, environmental concerns remain. As the number of flights and passengers grows, so do emissions, raising questions about sustainability.
Environmental advocate Matt Finch warned that increased air traffic could lead to rising emissions, even with more efficient aircraft. Nonetheless, lower jet fuel prices and Uganda’s investments in infrastructure and safety create a solid foundation for sustainable growth.
With its modernized terminal and partnerships with global airlines like Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, and Qatar Airways, Entebbe International Airport is positioning itself as a key player in East Africa’s aviation sector, aligning with IATA’s forecasts for record-breaking global passenger numbers.
This positions Uganda to benefit from the ongoing recovery in the global aviation industry.
