Uganda Airlines says it has obtained landing slots at London Heathrow Airport (LHR) in the United Kingdom and Dubai International Airport (DXB) in the United Arab Emirates as it plans to launch its long-range operations with non-stop intercontinental flights to the Middle East, Europe and Asia.

“The process of obtaining traffic rights, foreign air operator permits and landing approvals, in the target destinations is progressing well,” reads part of the statement from the operator.

The operator said it will start inter-continental operations to Europe, Asia and the Middle East, after complete ting the ongoing A330-800neo aircraft certification process with the Uganda Aviation Authority.

“This is a five -phase programme which once complete will result in the addition of the aircraft to the Uganda Airlines Operator certificate (AOC),” reads part of the statement from the Airline operator.

The target initial routes with the A330 are London, Dubai, Guanzhou and Mumbai, with the airline operating direct flights to these city pairs from Entebbe International Airport.

Last month, Uganda received its second Airbus A330neo aircraft, bringing the total fleet to six as the national carrier, Uganda Airlines, continues with revival efforts.

The A330neo aircraft touched down at Entebbe International Airport, 40 km south of the capital Kampala, on February 2, 2021 as few invited guests due to COVID-19 guidelines cheered. The country received a similar aircraft in December last year.

Uganda Airlines collapsed in 2001 after it faced financial difficulties. It was liquidated after years of making losses.

Uganda began flight operations in August 2019 with the four Bombardiers CRJ900 for regional flights.

Government is optimistic that the revival of the national flag carrier will boost the country’s economic growth and tourism. Ugandans spend over 400 million U.S. dollars on air travel annually.