Airlines enter code sharing deal to grow wings

An Air Uganda aircraft at Entebbe International Airport. Photo/MORGAN MBABAZI

RwandAir and Air Uganda have announced the signing of a code share deal on their flights between Entebbe and Kigali to fight for a larger market.

Air Uganda CEO Hugh Fraser said the pair will be marketed as one entity.

“It will also allow travel agents to sell tickets on each other’s flights and offer customers the same combinable fares on the same tickets. This, according to officials, will make it cheaper and simpler for their customers to use both airlines flights,” said Mr Fraser.

Air Uganda, is part of the Aga Khan’s Fund for Economic Development and has been expanding since November 2007.

With their synchronised schedules, RwandAir and Air Uganda will offer passengers daily morning and evening flights between Entebbe and Kigali.

Officials of the airlines said the code share will enable travel agents to sell combinable fares on both airlines using the same ticket.

“We both operate the same kind of fleet on this route and it only makes sense to the consumer if the two destinations are served with seamless schedules and fares,” said RwandAir chief executive Rene Janata.

“What the East African Community needs now more than ever is to see operators offer value that will facilitate regional movement and growth as opposed to restrictive modes of operation. This is a bold and positive step by both carriers,” said Mr John Mirenge chairman of RwandAir.