Uganda Airlines has signed a commitment with Boeing to acquire 10 new aircraft, including eight passenger planes and two freighters, in a major step towards expanding its fleet and strengthening its international operations.
The agreement was signed on Wednesday 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 (BCF).
The airline said the expansion will significantly increase its capacity to serve regional, continental, and international markets while supporting Uganda's broader economic development objectives.
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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.
Uganda Airlines also expressed gratitude to President 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.
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.
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The latest acquisition, once finalized and delivered, will significantly increase the airline's operational capacity and strengthen its ability to compete in both passenger and cargo markets.
