Overview:
With the acquisition of the freighters, the airline is expected to further enhance its cargo operations and contribute to the growth of Uganda's economy.
Uganda Airlines has taken a significant step towards expanding its fleet with the cabinet’s approval to acquire two freighters from Boeing. The move is expected to boost the airline’s cargo operations and support the export of agricultural produce.
The two freighters, a narrowbody B737-800(BCF) and a widebody B777-F, will be added to the airline’s existing fleet of two A330-800Ns and four CRJ900LRs. This development follows an announcement in September that President Yoweri Museveni had approved the purchase of six more aircraft for the state-owned carrier.
According to Richard Ndiku, commissioner at the Ministry of Works and Transport, discussions with Boeing on the terms and conditions of the purchases are ongoing. Ndiku made the announcement while updating parliamentarians on the implementation of the ruling party National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) 2021-2026 manifesto.
The acquisition of the freighters is expected to enhance Uganda Airlines’ cargo operations, which will in turn support the country’s agricultural export sector. The airline’s expansion plans also include the purchase of four mid-range A320-200neo narrowbodies and two B787 widebodies, likely B787-8s, which are expected to be delivered after 2030.
Uganda Airlines has been working to expand its operations and improve its services. The airline recently launched direct flights from Entebbe to Dubai, Abuja, and Lagos, among other destinations.