By Kato Jamil
Uganda Airlines has expanded its fleet with the acquisition of a second Airbus A320-200 under a short-term wet lease agreement with Lithuania’s DAT, a move aimed at enhancing operational capacity during the busy winter travel season. This strategic addition comes as part of the airline’s efforts to address growing demand and improve service efficiency on key international routes.
The newly leased Airbus A320-200, which is 9.3 years old, will supplement Uganda Airlines’ existing fleet of four CRJ900LRs and two A330-800Ns. It is expected to provide significant operational relief, especially on high-demand routes like Johannesburg and Kinshasa, where the airline has faced capacity constraints with its smaller CRJ900 aircraft.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency and Capacity
In a statement, Uganda Airlines CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki emphasized that the new A320 will help the airline overcome operational challenges while maintaining its flight schedules, especially as part of the fleet undergoes scheduled maintenance. “The addition of the A320 will allow us to increase capacity on specific routes where demand has surged. This is crucial for maintaining schedule integrity during the festive season,” she said.
The A320-200 is configured with 12 business class seats and 144 economy seats, offering a capacity of 156 passengers—more than double that of the CRJ900, which holds only 90 passengers. This increased capacity will cater to the surge in leisure and business travel during the peak holiday season, alleviating pressure on the airline’s smaller planes.
Strategic Growth in Cargo and Regional Connectivity
Beyond passenger services, the Airbus A320-200 will also enhance Uganda Airlines’ cargo capabilities, providing an additional revenue stream to support Uganda’s growing trade and business activities. The larger aircraft’s expanded hold space will allow the airline to meet rising demand for both freight and passenger services, solidifying its role as a regional and international player.
The acquisition of this second A320-200 builds on Uganda Airlines’ recent fleet expansion efforts. The airline had previously entered into a one-year wet lease agreement in April 2024 with Global Airways for an Airbus A320 to operate on its Johannesburg route. This was a response to payload challenges caused by the hot-and-high conditions at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, showcasing the airline’s adaptability to varying operational needs.
Expanding Network & Future Plans
This wet lease strategy is also part of Uganda Airlines’ broader plans for growth. The airline has steadily expanded its route network, including new permits for international destinations such as Saudi Arabia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, with plans in the pipeline to serve Guangzhou, China.
Moreover, Uganda Airlines is working on developing a hub in Entebbe, which would serve as a key connection point for travelers moving between Uganda and other regional and international markets.
With its fleet expansion, strategic partnerships, and focus on improving both passenger and cargo capacity, Uganda Airlines is positioning itself for continued growth as it navigates the challenges and opportunities of the global aviation industry.
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