Uganda Airlines has unveiled a landmark fleet expansion plan that is expected to create significant employment opportunities in the country’s aviation industry after placing its first-ever direct aircraft order with American aerospace giant Boeing. Announced at the Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom, the national carrier will acquire eight new aircraft comprising four Boeing 737-8 jets and four Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners as it accelerates its regional and long-haul expansion strategy.
The investment is expected to trigger a fresh recruitment drive, with aviation experts projecting demand for approximately 80 additional pilots and more than 200 cabin crew members to operate the incoming fleet. The new aircraft will enable Uganda Airlines to strengthen services across Africa while expanding its reach to key destinations in the Middle East, Europe and Asia through its hub at Entebbe International Airport.
Uganda Airlines Chief Executive Officer Ato Girma Wake described the agreement as a transformational milestone for the airline, saying the acquisition reinforces the carrier’s ambition to establish Entebbe as a leading aviation gateway in East Africa. He noted that the expanded fleet will improve connectivity, stimulate tourism, boost trade and cargo services, and attract greater investment into Uganda’s economy.
Boeing welcomed Uganda Airlines as a new direct customer, with Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing Brad McMullen saying the Boeing 737-8 and 787-9 offer the fuel efficiency, operational flexibility and long-range capability required to support the airline’s growth ambitions. The manufacturer added that the modern aircraft consume 20 to 25 percent less fuel than the older-generation jets they are expected to replace, helping lower operating costs while reducing environmental impact.
Since resuming commercial operations in 2019, Uganda Airlines has steadily expanded its footprint and now serves 17 destinations across 13 countries. The latest fleet acquisition marks one of the airline’s most significant investments to date and positions the national carrier for sustained growth as demand for air travel across Africa and international markets continues to rise.
