From Kampala to Mbarara by Air? MP Magogo Proposes Shs300,000 Domestic Flights on Uganda Airlines

Budiope East Member of Parliament and FUFA President Moses Magogo has proposed the introduction of affordable domestic flights by Uganda Airlines, arguing that the move could save travelers time, reduce road congestion and support economic growth across the country.

In a post on X, Magogo praised Uganda Airlines and questioned why the national carrier does not operate budget-friendly domestic routes to major towns and cities including Arua, Gulu, Kidepo, Soroti, Mbale, Jinja, Masaka, Hoima, Mbarara and Kabale.

“I love travelling on Uganda Airlines. It feels so Ugandan,” Magogo wrote. “I am wondering why doesn’t Uganda Airlines operate domestic budget flights to Arua, Gulu, Kidepo, Soroti, Mbale, Jinja, Masaka, Hoima, Mbarara, Kabale at affordable rates like say 300,000 UGX.”

The legislator suggested using 50-seater aircraft to operate circular routes linking various regions of the country. Among the routes he proposed were Kajjansi-Mbarara-Kabale-Hoima-Kajjansi and Kajjansi-Jinja-Mbale-Soroti-Kajjansi.

Magogo’s proposal quickly attracted attention online, with supporters arguing that domestic air travel could offer a practical alternative to long road journeys.

Supporters noted that domestic flights could help reduce traffic congestion, lower the number of road accidents and save valuable time for businesspeople moving between different parts of the country.

Responding to critics who questioned whether there would be enough demand, Magogo said the proposal should be evaluated through proper research and data analysis.

“We are all thinking with data and research. Why not conduct proper research to inform decisions?” he wrote.

He argued that policymakers should consider the hidden costs associated with road transport, including fuel consumption, environmental pollution, traffic jams, road wear and tear, accidents and the many hours lost during travel.

“If you cost the many vehicles that move with one or two passengers from Kampala to Mbarara and the fuel they consume, the pollution, the man hours lost, the traffic jam, the accidents and the wear of the roads, it may not be for all but those who can afford,” Magogo added.

However, some social media users remained skeptical, questioning whether a one-way fare of Shs300,000 would attract enough passengers given the availability of cheaper bus and taxi services.

Others also raised concerns about the operational costs involved in running domestic air routes, including fuel, aircraft maintenance, airport charges and staffing requirements.

Uganda previously operated domestic flights to several destinations using smaller aircraft, although many of those services were eventually discontinued due to operational and commercial challenges.

The discussion comes at a time when Uganda Airlines is pursuing expansion plans as it seeks to strengthen its network and improve connectivity both within the region and internationally.

While no official response has been issued by Uganda Airlines regarding Magogo’s proposal, the idea has reignited debate about the future of domestic air travel and whether affordable flights could help transform transportation across Uganda.