Boeing and Uganda Airlines have announced an order for four Boeing 737-8 and four Boeing 787-9 aircraft, marking the national carrier’s first direct purchase from the US aircraft manufacturer. The agreement will support the airline’s fleet modernisation strategy and expanding regional and international network.
The new aircraft are expected to strengthen Uganda Airlines’ operations from its hub at Entebbe International Airport while supporting growing demand for passenger and cargo services across Africa, the Middle East, India, Asia and Europe.
The Boeing 737-8, with seating capacity for 160 to 180 passengers in a two-class configuration and a range of up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km), will be deployed on the airline’s regional African routes as well as services to the Middle East and India. The longer-range Boeing 787-9, capable of flying up to 8,300 nautical miles (15,370 km), will support high-demand long-haul operations to destinations in the Middle East, Asia and Europe.
Ato Girma Wake, CEO of Uganda Airlines, said the order represents a significant milestone in the airline’s long-term growth strategy.
“This commitment with Boeing marks a defining step in Uganda Airlines’ growth journey and in our broader ambition to position Entebbe as a strategic aviation hub for the region,” Wake said.
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He added that the aircraft will improve connectivity between Uganda and regional, continental and international markets while supporting trade, tourism, investment and cargo development.
Brad McMullen, Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing at Boeing, welcomed Uganda Airlines as a new Boeing customer.
“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,” McMullen said.
According to Boeing, the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner will enable Uganda Airlines to expand its route network while reducing fuel consumption by 20-25% compared with the aircraft they replace.
Wake said the partnership extends beyond fleet expansion and includes long-term collaboration in technical expertise, training and capacity building.
“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.
Uganda Airlines currently operates flights to 17 destinations across 13 countries from its hub in Entebbe and expects the new aircraft to play a key role in supporting its future growth plans.
