This archive report was first published on 8 October 2019.
On October 7, 2019, Uganda Airlines took a significant step in its aggressive expansion drive by adding two passenger planes to its fleet. The move is aimed at challenging Ethiopian Airlines' dominance in East Africa's aviation market.
The two CRJ900 planes were received from Canadian manufacturer Bombardier, as confirmed by a statement issued on the same day. The planes have a capacity of 72 passengers each.
According to the airline, the new aircraft will enable it to expand its route network to cover several destinations in Southern and Central Africa, including Kinshasa, Zanzibar, Lusaka, Asmara, Hargeisa, Djibouti, and Addis Ababa.
Uganda Airlines' relaunch on August 27, 2019, marked a significant milestone in the country's aviation history. The airline was previously liquidated in 2001 after all potential bidders pulled out in the privatization process.
With the addition of the new aircraft, Uganda Airlines is set to compete with other major East African airlines, including Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, RwandAir, and Air Tanzania. These airlines have been fueling aggressive expansion drives, venturing into new routes and increasing their market share.
According to forecasts, air traffic in Africa is expected to grow at a rate of 6% annually over the next two decades. However, most state-owned national carriers, including Kenya Airways, are making losses.
Uganda Airlines' expansion drive is seen as a significant development in the East African aviation market. The airline's new fleet will enable it to compete with other major airlines in the region, providing passengers with more options and better services.
