By Bonface Mulyungi
Uganda Airlines has announced the suspension of its flights to and from Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following renewed concerns over Ebola developments in the region.
In a statement issued on the night of Friday, May 22, 2026, the national carrier said the decision takes effect immediately and will remain in force until further notice, as health authorities continue to monitor the situation.
“Uganda Airlines wishes to inform the public that, following recent Ebola developments in the region, flights to and from Kinshasa will be temporarily cancelled effective 23rd May, 2026, until further notice,” the airline stated.
Precautionary safety measure
The airline said the suspension was taken as a precautionary step aimed at safeguarding passengers, crew members, and the wider public from potential health risks associated with the Ebola outbreak.
“This decision has been taken as a precautionary measure in the interest of the health, safety, and well-being of our passengers, crew, and the wider public,” the airline stated.
The carrier emphasised that it remains committed to maintaining the highest safety standards in all its operations.
Passengers advised to seek assistance
Uganda Airlines has urged passengers affected by the cancellations to contact its customer service channels for support, including rebooking and travel assistance options.
The airline also apologised for the inconvenience caused and appealed for patience and understanding from travellers during the suspension period.
“We regret the inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our valued customers during this period. Passengers affected by cancellations are advised to contact Uganda Airlines through our customer service channels for support,” the statement read.
The airline said it will continue to monitor developments closely in consultation with relevant health and aviation authorities.
Further updates regarding the resumption of flights will be communicated once conditions are deemed safe.
The suspension comes amid heightened regional vigilance following Ebola alerts in parts of Central Africa, prompting several health and aviation stakeholders to review travel protocols and preventive measures.
The United States Department of State has announced new public health arrival restrictions and enhanced Ebola screening measures targeting travellers arriving from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, and South Sudan.
In an updated health alert issued on Friday, May 22, 2026, U.S. authorities said American citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) who have been present in any of the three countries within 21 days before arrival in the United States will now be required to enter through designated airports for additional health screening.
According to the notice, the restrictions will be implemented in phases across three major U.S. airports.
Travellers will be directed to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) for flights arriving after 11:59 pm on May 21, 2026, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) for flights arriving after 11:59 pm on May 22, 2026, and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston for flights departing after 11:59 pm on May 26, 2026.
