Jambojet to Resume Nairobi–Entebbe Flights in October, Ending Six-Year Absence
Regional low-cost carrier Jambojet is set to resume flights between Nairobi and Entebbe on October 1, 2026, ending a six-year absence from the Ugandan market, as reported by SoftPower News. The airline said the daily service is intended to strengthen connectivity between Uganda and Kenya while supporting business travel, tourism and cross-border trade.
The return to Entebbe forms part of Jambojet's regional expansion strategy and will give travellers additional options for moving between the two East African markets, according to SoftPower News. One-way fares will start at approximately US$170, and the airline will also offer cargo and parcel services on the route, providing additional capacity for businesses moving goods between Uganda and Kenya.
Jambojet Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Karanja Ndegwa said Uganda remains an important market for the airline. "Our return to Uganda is a strategic step forward in our mission to strengthen regional connectivity. We see significant opportunities to support business, tourism and trade between Kenya and Uganda while providing travellers with an affordable, reliable and convenient flying experience that Jambojet is known for," Ndegwa said.
He added that the route would improve access to destinations beyond Nairobi through the airline's wider network. "Making flying accessible across East Africa and beyond remains central to our mission. Uganda is an important market for Jambojet, and we are excited to reconnect the two destinations while creating greater opportunities for travellers to connect to other destinations across our network," he said.
The airline said it expects the Nairobi–Entebbe corridor to handle about 300,000 passengers in 2026, reflecting continued demand for travel between the two countries. The daily flights are also expected to benefit Ugandan travellers heading to Kenya's coastal destinations, including Mombasa, Diani, Malindi and Lamu.
Regional Context
NTV Uganda's report frames Jambojet's return within the broader context of East Africa's aviation market, which it describes as gaining momentum as airlines expand capacity and reconnect regional routes. The report notes that air travel is increasingly important to tourism and business across the bloc, and that domestic routes continue to account for the largest share of African air traffic. The report, by Kamana Ivan Walunyolo, highlights that the airline plans daily flights, strengthening links between Uganda and Kenya and giving travellers easier access to destinations including Nairobi and the Kenyan coast.
Background and Recent Milestones
Jambojet first entered the Ugandan market in 2018, but its regional operations were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to SoftPower News. The airline's return comes amid a period of operational growth: in April 2026, Jambojet increased its active fleet to 11 aircraft and marked its 10 millionth passenger. The carrier also reported an on-time performance of 86.45% in July 2026, as stated by SoftPower News.
Stakeholder Reactions
A stakeholder engagement breakfast was held at Sheraton Kampala Hotel in partnership with the Uganda Association of Travel Agents (TUGATA), according to SoftPower News. TUGATA Chairperson Irene Nanyombi welcomed the airline's return, saying, "We are delighted to welcome Jambojet back to Uganda. The resumption of this service comes at an opportune time, as we continue to strengthen travel, trade and tourism opportunities across the region."