Kenyans can now book direct flights to Uganda after Jambojet resumed its Nairobi-Entebbe route on Thursday, October 1, following a six-year break.
The company suspended the flights during the height of COVID in 2020 due to a sharp decline in passenger demand and travel fears prompted by the pandemic.
During the resumption ceremony at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for its inaugural flight back to Uganda, the company’s Managing Director and CEO, Karanja Ndegwa, said the return would give Kenyans an affordable way to travel to Uganda while maintaining the airline’s focus on reliable service.
“Our proposition is therefore not simply about the price. It’s about getting you there directly, reliably, and on time,” Ndegwa said.
Representing the government at the event was Permanent Secretary in the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Teresiah Mbaika, who said the renewed connection would create opportunities beyond travel.
“Today, we are not simply celebrating a new flight schedule. We are celebrating the opening of another gateway through which people can travel, businesses can thrive, investors can explore opportunities, tourists can discover our region, and communities can strengthen their links with the wider East African market and beyond,” Mbaika said.
The Nairobi flight departs at 9:30 am and arrives in Entebbe at 11 am, while the return flight leaves Entebbe at 11:40 am. The journey takes approximately one hour and 30 minutes.
Fares start from Ksh22,950 one way, with prices varying depending on travel dates and availability.
Just before the inaugural flight departed to Uganda, Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Amb. Ababu Namwamba flagged off the plane as guests were treated to song and dance on the runway.
Speaking just before the flight’s departure, he said the renewed connection would strengthen regional ties while opening opportunities for trade, tourism, investment and people-to-people connections.
The route also gives travellers from Uganda the opportunity to connect through Nairobi to Kenyan coastal destinations, including Mombasa, Diani, Malindi and Lamu.
Ndegwa said the airline hopes to increase the number of flights as demand grows.
“We want this route to grow with the market. We are starting with a daily flight and, as demand grows, our intention is to increase frequencies and give customers even greater choice and flexibility,” he said.
