Air Tanzania extended its services to Entebbe International Airport with its inaugural flight on Sunday, August 26. The 76-Seater Q400 series plane touched down at 13:01pm and was received by the Minister of State for Works and Transport; Hon. Aggrey Bagiire and the Tanzanian High Commissioner to Uganda; H.E. Grace A. Mgovano, Civil Aviation Authority officials, Air Tanzania officials, and H.E. Richard Tumusiime Kabonero, High Commissioner of the Republic of Uganda. The flight was honored with a water salute; a customary welcome in the aviation industry.
In his remarks, the Hon. Minister of Works and Transport noted that this is a huge step towards easing connections between the East African countries and that it will help boost trade between the two countries. The Tanzanian Ambassador to Uganda confirmed that Air Tanzania will offer affordable flights with high frequency through Entebbe International Airport totaling to 4 times a week. He was optimistic that the entry of Air Tanzania to the Entebbe route will meet the travel demands of East Africans.
“On top of the low fares, Air Tanzania will offer customers the ability to customize their travel to their needs and budget by allowing excess luggage and issuing tickets that don’t expire”, he added.
In a statement released by the Managing Director and CEO of Air Tanzania; Eng. Ladislaus Matindi said that, “The Wings of Kilimanjaro is proud to once again serve East Africa with direct flights and smooth connections to and from Tanzania. The service will enhance investment, trade and tourism opportunities in the region.”
Air Tanzania is the flag carrier airline of Tanzania based in Dar es Salaam with its hub at Julius Nyerere International Airport. It was established in 1977 and has been a member of the African Airlines Association since its inception. Air Tanzania is a wholly owned government company that has served a variety of domestic, regional and international destinations over the years. The airline operates a fleet of 5 aircrafts including a Boeing 787-7 Dreamliner to meet performance, dependability and comfort.