Uganda Airlines has announced a landmark order for eight new Boeing aircraft as part of its strategy to expand and modernize its fleet. The national carrier will acquire four Boeing 737-8 aircraft and four Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, marking its first direct aircraft purchase from Boeing.

The announcement was made jointly by Boeing and Uganda Airlines, with the new aircraft expected to support growing demand across the airline's regional and international network while strengthening Uganda's position as a regional aviation hub.

Uganda Airlines Chief Executive Officer Girma Wake described the agreement as a defining milestone 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 aviation hub for the region," Wake said.

He added that the new fleet would improve connectivity between Uganda and regional, continental and international markets while supporting trade, tourism, investment and cargo development.

The Boeing 737-8 aircraft will primarily serve Uganda Airlines' regional network across Africa as well as routes to the Middle East and India. Configured to carry between 160 and 180 passengers in a two-class layout, the aircraft has a range of up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 kilometres).

The larger Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, capable of flying up to 8,300 nautical miles (15,370 kilometres), will support long-haul services to destinations in the Middle East, Asia and Europe.

Boeing said the combination of the 737 MAX and the 787 Dreamliner will enable Uganda Airlines to serve more destinations while reducing fuel consumption by 20 to 25 percent compared with the aircraft they replace.

Brad McMullen, Boeing Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing, welcomed Uganda Airlines as a 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," he said.

Wake also said the partnership extends beyond the purchase of aircraft and includes long-term cooperation in technical expertise, training and capacity building.

Uganda Airlines currently operates scheduled passenger and cargo services from its hub at Entebbe International Airport, serving 17 destinations across 13 countries. The airline resumed operations in 2019 after being revived as Uganda's national carrier.

The Boeing order represents one of the airline's most significant fleet expansion initiatives and is expected to support its long-term growth strategy while enhancing connectivity between Uganda and key international markets.