Overview:
Uganda Airlines plans to add 10 Boeing aircraft to its fleet, targeting growth in trade, tourism and cargo transportation under Uganda Vision 2040.
KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda Airlines signed a commitment with Boeing on Wednesday to acquire 10 new aircraft, including eight passenger planes and two freighters, to expand its fleet and strengthen international operations.
The agreement was signed during a ceremony at State House witnessed by President Yoweri Museveni, senior government officials, representatives of the United States Embassy, members of the Uganda Airlines board and Boeing executives.
Under the proposed acquisition, Uganda Airlines will add eight passenger aircraft to its fleet alongside two cargo aircraft: a Boeing 767 converted freighter and a Boeing 737 Boeing Converted Freighter.
According to a statement issued after the signing, the additional aircraft will facilitate trade, tourism, investment and cargo transportation, contributing to the implementation of Uganda Vision 2040 and the country’s long-term development goals.
The expansion is also expected to support growth in key sectors identified under the government’s economic transformation agenda, including agriculture, tourism, minerals and services.
“This is a strategic investment in Uganda’s future and a major step towards establishing Uganda as a leading aviation hub in the region,” the airline said.
The deal marks the beginning of what Uganda Airlines described as a long-term partnership with Boeing, one of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers.
During the ceremony, Boeing Vice President of Sales Anbessie Yitbarek pledged continued support for the airline through technical expertise, training and capacity-building initiatives aimed at ensuring sustainable growth.
The national carrier, which resumed commercial operations in 2019 after nearly two decades out of service, has been steadily expanding its network and fleet as it seeks to position Uganda as a key aviation gateway for East and Central Africa.
Uganda Airlines expressed gratitude to Museveni, the government, the board of directors, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, Boeing, and the airline’s management and negotiation teams for supporting the acquisition process.