Uganda airlines has announced a landmark order of eight Boeing aircrafts, marking the airline’s first direct purchase from the Americans aerospace manufacturer. The acquisition is expected to significantly expand the national carrier’s regional and international operations while reinforcing Entebbe International Airport’s position as a growing aviation hub in East Africa.
The orders include:
- Four Boeing 737-8 MAX aircrafts for regional and medium haul routes across Africa, the Middle East and India.
- Four Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircrafts for long haul international services to Europe, Asia and the Middle East .
A Major Milestone For Uganda Airlines
The announcement was made during the 2026 Famborough International Airshow, in the United Kingdom where Boeing and Uganda Airlines finalized the agreement. It represents Uganda’s first-ever direct aircraft purchase from Boeing and forms part of the airline’s long-term fleet monetization strategy.
The new aircrafts will enable the airline to meet rising passenger demand while expanding it’s network across Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia.
CEO Ato Girma Wake on the Deal
Uganda Airlines Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ato Girma Wake described the purchase as a defining moment for the airline.
” This commitment with Boeing marks a defining step in Uganda Airlines’ growth journey and in our broader ambition to position Entebbe as a strategic hub for the region. “
Wake added that the new fleet will improve connectivity to regional, continental and international destinations supporting trade, tourism, investment and cargo development.
Boeing Welcomes Uganda Airlines
Brad Mcmullen, Boeing Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing, said the aircrafts are ideally suited to support the Airlines’ expansion plans.
” These aeroplanes offer efficiency, range and versatility to help Uganda Airlines strengthen and expand it’s network. “
According to Boeing the combination of the 737-8 MAX and 787-9 Dreamliner will reduce fuel consumption by 20-25% compared with older generation aircraft, lowering operating cost while improving environmental performances.
Supporting Uganda’s Aviation Vision
The aircraft order follows an agreement signed in June 2026 in presence of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who described the fleet expansion as a strategic investment in Uganda’s future. The broader agreement includes 10 Boeing aircrafts, 8 passenger jets and 2 cargo freighters, valued at approximately UGX 3.7 trillion (about US$985 million)
Final Thoughts
Uganda’s order for eight Boeing passenger aircraft represents one of the most significant investments in the airline’s history .
With fuel-efficient aircrafts, an expanded route network and government backing, Uganda Airlines is aiming to transform Entebbe into one of Africa’s leading aviation gateways while supporting Uganda’s broader economic development goals.
