Uganda Airlines`ambitious growth plan for the next five years

Uganda Airlines, the national carrier of Uganda, has charted an ambitious growth path for the next five years. The airline plans to double its fleet and expand its destinations, emphasizing its strong international ambitions. Among the notable developments is the upcoming launch of flights to London Gatwick, slated for the end of the year, following the securing of slots at this major airport in South London.

Fleet Expansion and Modernization

Since its relaunch nearly five years ago, Uganda Airlines has steadily expanded its fleet. Currently, it includes six aircraft: four CRJ900LRs and two Airbus A330-800neos. To bolster its regional operations, the airline also utilizes an Airbus A320-200 leased from South Africa's Global Airways.

This wet-leased A320 enables Uganda Airlines to operate regional routes where the CRJ900 faces payload limitations. The airline's long-term strategy involves integrating narrow-body aircraft into its fleet, highlighted by a recent Request for Proposal (RFP) for up to four Airbus A320neos pending government approval. While the earliest delivery of the new A320neos is expected by 2031, Uganda Airlines is actively negotiating with lessors to lease these aircraft earlier, ensuring they meet the airline's preferred cabin configurations and design standards. Additionally, the airline is considering a finance lease agreement, which would eventually transfer ownership of the aircraft to Uganda Airlines.

To enhance its long-haul capabilities, the airline is also contemplating the purchase of new wide-body aircraft. A recent visit by Boeing executives to the Ugandan president resulted in an agreement for two Boeing 777 freighters and 787 Dreamliners. Uganda Airlines is advancing the 787 deal and is in ongoing discussions with Boeing.

New Route to London Gatwick

Uganda Airlines has long aimed to establish flights to London. Thanks to Uganda's successful completion of ICAO safety audits, this goal is now within reach. With no slots available at Heathrow, the airline secured slots at London Gatwick (LGW) and is also considering Stansted as an alternative.

The new service from Entebbe to London Gatwick is set to commence at the end of 2024, marking a significant milestone for the airline.

Enhanced Regional Services

Currently, the airline's A320 serves key regional destinations such as Lagos, Nairobi, and Kinshasa, allowing for higher frequency on these routes. Uganda Airlines plans to extend the A320 service to Johannesburg, overcoming the CRJ900's capacity limitations for this distance. Approval from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) to commence this route is still awaited.

With these ambitious plans, Uganda Airlines is poised to become a more influential player on the international aviation stage, offering expanded services and a modernized fleet to its passengers