Uganda Airlines orders eight Boeing jets to expand Africa and global routes

Uganda Airlines has placed its first-ever direct aircraft order with Boeing, purchasing eight new jets as the state-owned carrier accelerates plans to expand its footprint across Africa and international markets.

The order includes four Boeing 737-8 aircraft and four Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, giving the airline additional capacity for regional services while strengthening long-haul connections to Europe, Asia, the Middle East and beyond. The investment marks one of the carrier’s biggest fleet expansion moves since it resumed operations in 2019.

Chief Executive Officer Ato Girma Wake said the agreement represents a milestone in the airline’s long-term 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.

New aircraft to boost efficiency and connectivity

The Boeing 737-8, capable of carrying between 160 and 180 passengers in a two-class layout, has a range of about 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 kilometers), making it suitable for routes across Africa as well as services to the Middle East and India.

The larger Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, with a range of up to 8,300 nautical miles (15,370 kilometers), will support high-demand long-haul operations connecting Uganda with Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

According to Boeing, the combination of the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner is expected to reduce fuel consumption by 20% to 25% compared with the aircraft they replace, lowering operating costs while supporting more sustainable operations.

Supporting trade, tourism and investment

Uganda Airlines currently serves 17 destinations across 13 countries from its hub at Entebbe International Airport, connecting passengers to cities including Nairobi, Johannesburg, Lagos, Abuja, Kinshasa, Dar es Salaam, Dubai, Mumbai and London.

Wake said the additional aircraft will strengthen Uganda’s links to regional and international markets while supporting tourism, trade, investment and cargo 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,” he said.

Boeing deepens African presence

Brad McMullen, Boeing’s senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, welcomed Uganda Airlines as a new 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,” McMullen said. “These airplanes offer efficiency, range and versatility to help Uganda Airlines strengthen and expand its network.”

The agreement further strengthens Boeing’s presence in Africa, where airlines are investing in newer, fuel-efficient aircraft to meet rising passenger demand, expand tourism and improve regional connectivity while supporting long-term economic growth.