Uganda Airlines Requests Shs 422.2B for 10 New Airbus & Boeing Jets

Uganda Airlines is pursuing a significant fleet expansion, seeking Shs 422.2 billion to initiate the acquisition of 10 new aircraft. This proposed fleet includes four mid-range narrow-body Airbus models, four wide-body Boeing planes, and two Boeing converted freighters for cargo. Works and Transport Minister Gen. Katumba Wamala revealed this plan on December 1, 2025, to Parliament's budget committee, defending the airline’s supplementary funding request. The supplementary funds will cover initial requirements for this financial year, with aircraft purchases anticipated from both manufacturers in January 2026. Legislators questioned the investment's emergency classification, arguing it should have been planned within the national budget, and called for improved management efficiency. Uganda Airlines, which began operations in August 2019, currently serves 17 destinations in 12 countries. Its latest route, London Gatwick, operates four times weekly using an Airbus A330-800neo, offering 20 business class, 28 premium economy, and 210 economy seats. An Auditor General's report for the year ending December 2024 showed Uganda Airlines' revenue for 2023/24 increased by 50% to Shs 349.6 billion, driven by passenger (58%), cargo (55%), and ground handling (2,306%) revenue growth. However, direct costs surged to Shs 523 billion, primarily due to aviation fuel (34%), pilot training (31%), and inflight expenses (203%). Despite some cost reductions, the airline concluded the year with a net loss of Shs 237.9 billion.