Effective November 1, 2024, Entebbe International Airport will implement new parking fees as part of an ongoing effort to enhance passenger experience by upgrading its facilities. The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) announced the revised rates, which mark the first adjustment since October 2009.
Under the new structure, short-term parking fees will range from UGX 5,000 for saloon cars and station wagons to UGX 10,000 for larger vehicles such as lorries, trailers, and buses. Extra hours will cost UGX 1,000 across all vehicle categories. Long-term parking charges will be set at UGX 30,000 for the first day, with additional days costing UGX 10,000. Notably, parking beyond 30 days will attract a fee of UGX 200,000 per day to discourage long-term stays. The recommended limit for long-term parking is 30 days.
“In a bid to enhance ongoing efforts for investment in upgrading facilities for a better passenger experience, revised car parking rates are scheduled to be implemented at Entebbe International Airport starting on November 1, 2024. The current rates have been in place since October 1, 2009,” said Vianney M. Luggya, Manager, Public Affairs Uganda Civil Aviation Authority in a statement.
The announcement has sparked a range of reactions from the public. Some Ugandans took to social media to voice their frustration over the new fees. One user sarcastically suggested raising the charge for the first 20 minutes to UGX 100,000, pointing out that the airport is becoming increasingly expensive for the average citizen. Another person questioned why fees are charged when the airport disclaims responsibility, stating that parking is at the owner’s risk. Some users proposed a return to the previous rate of UGX 2,000, arguing it would be more reasonable.
In response, UCAA shared a flier outlining the new parking rates for all vehicle categories and introduced options for frequent users. Full details are available on their website and social media platforms.
Fred Bamwesigye, the Director General of UCAA, addressed public concerns, emphasizing that parking fees are used to fund critical airport upgrades. “To enhance the passenger experience, Entebbe International Airport is currently undergoing infrastructure restorations, including improvements to terminals, runways, taxiways, and parking facilities,” added UCAA spokesperson Vianney Luggya.
Between January and June 2024, Entebbe International Airport saw an increase in aircraft movements, rising from 14,575 in the same period of 2023 to 15,223 in 2024. The UCAA has pointed to these growing numbers and the need for modernized infrastructure as key reasons for the revised parking fees.
As improvements continue, public reactions remain divided, with ongoing concerns about the balance between affordability and the necessary upgrades at the airport.