On March 31, 2023, Badr Airlines, Sudan’s largest airline, made its inaugural flight to Entebbe International Airport in Uganda. The 180-seater aircraft was received with a water salute upon touching down at 14:30 hours and was welcomed by the Ambassadors of Sudan and South Sudan.
Badr Airlines plans to start with one flight every Friday, and it has plans to add a second flight on Tuesday in the short run. The airline aims to provide a direct air link between Uganda and Sudan, making it easier for travelers to access the two countries.
BADR Airlines from Sudan on March 31, 2023 made it's maiden flight to Entebbe International Airport. The 180 seater aircraft was received with a water salute on touch down at 14.30 hrs and was received by the Ambassadors of Sudan and South Sudan. pic.twitter.com/JNsGAMepeI
— Uganda CAA (@UgandaCAA) April 1, 2023
Badr Airlines, which was formerly known as Sarit Airlines, has been expanding its operations over the past year, with the airline announcing in February 2023 that it would commence flights to London Gatwick Airport. This move marked a significant milestone for the airline, as it sought to expand its network beyond Africa.
The airline has a fleet of ten Boeing 737 aircraft, including versions -300, -400, and -500, which are used to operate international routes to neighboring countries, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and now Uganda.
With the addition of Entebbe International Airport to its list of destinations, Badr Airlines is set to tap into the growing demand for air travel between Sudan and Uganda. Uganda, which is home to a vibrant tourism industry, has seen a surge in tourist arrivals in recent years, and this move is expected to boost the industry further.