The national carrier Uganda Airlines is set to acquire 10 new aircraft, as the airline makes major steps in expanding Uganda’s aviation capacity and global connectivity.
According to a statement from the Presidential Press Unit, President Museveni on Wednesday witnessed the signing of a landmark agreement between the Uganda Airlines Management and the Boeing representatives.
According to statehouse, the fleet expansion, which includes passenger and cargo aircraft, will strengthen trade, tourism, and investment, and position Uganda as a key regional aviation hub.
The landmark deal worth UGX 3.7 trillion ($982 million) with American aircraft manufacturer Boeing, marks the largest fleet expansion programme since the national carrier was revived in 2019.
According to details released after the signing, the deal covers eight passenger aircraft and two cargo freighters, significantly expanding Uganda Airlines’ passenger and cargo capacity as it seeks to strengthen its position in regional and international aviation markets.
According to sources, the signing on Wednesday followed a series engagements between government officials and Boeing representatives.
Sources indicate that the deal had initially been scheduled for last week but was deferred after President Museveni directed that the documents undergo further scrutiny by the responsible minister and technical teams.
Currently, the national carrier operates a fleet of two Airbus A330-800neo aircraft used for long-haul routes, and four Bombardier CRJ-900LR jets serving regional destinations.
Recently, the airline added an Airbus A320-200 under a short-term wet lease arrangement with Lithuanian firm DAT to boost capacity.
