Jambo Jet, a low cost carrier, launched its services in Uganda with a maiden flight that landed at Entebbe International Airport on 15th February, 2018. The new entrant is scheduled to offer twice daily flights on the Entebbe – Nairobi route.
Speaking at the event, the Director Transport in the Ministry of Works and Transport, Mr. Benon Kajuna who represented the Minister of Works and Transport said growth of the air transport sector was important for the economy since it created opportunities for investment, capacity building, employment and creating linkages for better intra-regional trade.
“We need to build capacity to allow our local businesses to have greater access to foreign markets. Air transport supports exports and simultaneously increases competition and choice in the home market from foreign-based producers,” he said.
The Civil Aviation Authority’s Managing Director, Dr. David Mpango Kakuba congratulated the Management of Jambo Jet and applauded the airline for considering Entebbe International Airport as a worthy destination.
“In an effort to promote air transport development, Uganda embraced the Liberalization of air transport with in the region in line with the Yamoussoukro Decision (YD). This has included Multiple Designation; implying designating more than one airline on a route and removal of frequency and capacity limitations, which implies that the designated airlines can operate as many times as they wish,” he said.
Jambo Jet is a beneficiary of the multiple designation policy as there are already three other Kenyan operators on the route. Jambo Jet’s introductory fare of Shs 400,000 for a one way ticket is currently the cheapest in the region. The airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Willem Hondius said that Jambo Jet’s entry into Uganda will make air travel more affordable to majority of people who travel for business or leisure in the region and beyond.
The airline was welcomed to Entebbe with the traditional water – gun salute amidst ululations from traditional dancers and other guests who graced the colourful occasion with their presence.