Uganda Airlines orders eight Boeing jets to expand routes
The acquisition is expected to increase passenger and cargo capacity while supporting the airline's ambition of transforming Entebbe International Airport into a regional aviation hub.
Uganda Airlines chief executive officer Ato Girma Wake described the order as a landmark in the airline's growth strategy. (File photo)
________________
Uganda Airlines has ordered eight Boeing aircraft in a fleet expansion program aimed at strengthening its regional and international operations as the national carrier positions itself to serve more destinations across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
The order, announced at the Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom on July 21, 2026, comprises four Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft and four Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, which is Uganda Airlines' first direct aircraft purchase from the American aerospace manufacturer.
The acquisition is expected to increase passenger and cargo capacity while supporting the airline's ambition of transforming Entebbe International Airport into a regional aviation hub.
Uganda Airlines chief executive officer Ato Girma Wake described the order as a landmark in the airline's growth strategy.
"The aircraft will strengthen our ability to connect Uganda more efficiently to regional, continental and international markets, while supporting trade, tourism, investment and cargo development, " he added.
Wake said the new aircraft will modernise its fleet and help meet rising demand for air travel in East Africa and beyond.
The Boeing 737-8 MAX, which accommodates between 160 and 180 passengers in a two-class configuration and has a range of up to 6,480 kilometres, will primarily serve Uganda Airlines' regional network within Africa as well as routes to the Middle East and India.
The larger Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, capable of flying up to 15,370 kilometres, will be deployed on long-haul routes connecting Uganda to destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
According to Boeing, the two aircraft types will enable Uganda Airlines to expand its network while consuming between 20 and 25 percent less fuel than the aircraft they replace, reducing operating costs and improving environmental performance.
"We're pleased to welcome Uganda Airlines as a Boeing customer and support the airline's next phase of growth with the 737-8 and 787-9. These airplanes offer efficiency, range, and versatility to help Uganda Airlines strengthen and expand its network," he said.
Beyond the aircraft purchase, the partnership includes technical support, training, and capacity building to strengthen the airline's operational capabilities. Wake said the agreement represents a long-term investment in Uganda's aviation sector and economic development.
"Just as importantly, this partnership brings together Uganda Airlines and Boeing in a long-term relationship focused not only on fleet growth but also on technical excellence, training, and capacity building. We are proud to celebrate this milestone at Farnborough as we invest in the future of our national carrier and in Uganda's economic transformation," he said.
The fleet expansion comes as Uganda Airlines continues to grow its network since its revival in 2019. The carrier currently operates scheduled flights to 17 destinations in 13 countries from its hub at Entebbe International Airport.
The government has identified aviation as a key driver of tourism, trade, and investment, with improved air connectivity expected to facilitate the movement of people and goods while supporting Uganda's export sector.