Kabalega International Airport in Hoima has received its first passenger aircraft, marking a major milestone in the development of Uganda’s newest international airport and bringing it closer to commencing commercial operations.
According to a statement by the Ministry of Works and Transport, the historic arrivals took place on September 27, 2026, as aircraft carrying officials from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), FIFA and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Local Organising Committee landed at the airport ahead of the AFCON 2027 qualifier between Uganda and Libya.
The Libyan national team subsequently arrived aboard a Uganda Airlines aircraft, followed by the Uganda Cranes team. The flights provided an important operational test of the airport’s runway, air traffic control and support systems. Uganda’s Minister of Works and Transport, Fred Byamukama, said the airport was approximately 99 per cent complete, with final testing and construction works still underway. He added that the successful arrivals demonstrated the readiness of the airport’s systems.
The first phase of construction is nearing handover to the Ministry of Works and Transport. The government has also committed an additional 232 billion Ugandan shillings for a second phase, which will include a larger passenger terminal to increase the airport’s handling capacity. Construction of Kabalega International Airport began in 2018. The facility features a 3.5-kilometre runway and was initially developed to support Uganda’s oil and gas industry, particularly the transportation of heavy equipment to the Albertine region.
Beyond its role in the energy sector, the airport is expected to improve passenger connectivity, promote tourism, facilitate trade and stimulate economic activity across western Uganda. Its development also comes as Uganda prepares to co-host AFCON 2027 with Kenya and Tanzania, with Hoima among the locations preparing to host tournament activities. Kabalega International Airport is expected to officially begin commercial operations in January 2027, subject to the completion of remaining works, testing and commissioning.
